The prevalence of atopic dermatitis in Oregon schoolchildren

A randomized investigator-blinded study comparing pimecrolimus cream 1% with tacrolimus ointment 0.03% in the treatment of pediatric patients with moderate atopic dermatitis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate pimecrolimus cream 1% and tacrolimus ointment 0.03% in pediatric patients with moderate atopic dermatitis (AD).

METHODS

141 patients (aged 2-17 years) were randomized to treatment with pimecrolimus cream 1% (n=71) or tacrolimus ointment 0.03% (n=70) twice daily for 6 weeks.

RESULTS

At day 4, local, application-site reactions were less common and of shorter duration with pimecrolimus than with tacrolimus. Incidence of erythema/irritation was 8% (6/71) with pimecrolimus compared with 19% (13/70) with tacrolimus (P=.039). Fewer patients receiving pimecrolimus (0%, 0/6) experienced erythema/irritation lasting >30 minutes, compared with those receiving tacrolimus (85%, 11/13; P <.001). Fewer patients reported itching with pimecrolimus (8%; 6/71) than with tacrolimus (20%; 14/70; P=.073). Incidence of warmth, stinging, and burning was similar in both groups; however, reactions lasting >30 minutes were fewer with pimecrolimus (0%, 0/14) than with tacrolimus (67%, 8/12; P <.001). More patients receiving pimecrolimus rated ease of application as 'excellent' or 'very good', compared with tacrolimus (76% vs 59%, respectively; P <.020). Efficacy was similar in both groups at day 43. Both treatments were generally well tolerated with no unexpected adverse events.

CONCLUSION

Pimecrolimus cream 1% had better formulation attributes and local tolerability than tacrolimus ointment 0.03% while providing similar efficacy and overall safety in pediatric patients with moderate AD.

The Occurrence of Atopic Dermatitis in Greenland

Until recently there was no information available on the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in Greenland. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in younger schoolchildren in Greenland. In the autumn of 2000 we used our previously elaborated questionnaire in a cross-sectional study of 954 schoolchildren aged 7-8 years, who lived in five Greenlandic towns. The findings were compared to data on atopic dermatitis from Denmark. The response rate was 65% (622). The lifetime prevalence of atopic dermatitis was calculated to be 14.0% (95% confidence interval 11.3-16.7) using our standard score criteria with an absolute lower limit estimate of 4.5%. Taking the response rate of 65% into consideration this study indicates that in 2000 the lifetime prevalence of atopic dermatitis among younger schoolchildren in Greenland was in the range of 10-15%.

Tacrolimus ointment: the treatment of atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory cutaneous disease

Topical tacrolimus (FK506, Protopic) has been developed and marketed for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). Tacrolimus works as an inhibitor of calcineurin, which creates a downregulation of the inflammatory cascade. Numerous trials have shown the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus in treating AD in both adults and children. Additionally, comparison data with other medications commonly used for AD, such as topical steroids and pimecrolimus, show improved efficacy of tacrolimus. A comprehensive review of the off-label uses of tacrolimus in other dermatoses, including psoriasis, lichen planus and seborrhoeic dermatitis, is provided. The efficacy of tacrolimus in treating these diseases is based on Phase IV clinical trials and on case reports or series in the literature. Overall, tacrolimus has proven to be a safe and useful topical therapy for many inflammatory dermatological conditions, with AD being the principal indication.

Effects of atopic dermatitis on young American children and their families

OBJECTIVE

The psychologic, physical, and social impact of atopic dermatitis is complex and varies among children of different ages, and the effects of atopic dermatitis on the quality of life of very young American children and their families are not well understood. This study was conducted to document these effects of atopic dermatitis on young children and their families.

METHODS

Directed focus sessions were performed with parents of 26 young children with atopic dermatitis and 6 expert clinicians. Specific mentions of the ways in which atopic dermatitis affected the children and parents were reviewed, rank ordered, and categorized according to similarity in content. The categories were examined to determine the domains represented, and the domains were used to compose a conceptual framework of all of the ways that atopic dermatitis affects children and their families.

RESULTS

Parents and experts mentioned a total of 181 specific quality-of-life effects. A conceptual framework, developed from the 181 effects, contains the domains of physical health, emotional health, physical functioning, and social functioning; each domain includes effects on both the child and the parents.

CONCLUSIONS

Atopic dermatitis greatly affects the quality of life of afflicted children and their families. The comprehensive conceptual framework summarizes the ways in which atopic dermatitis affects the quality of life in young American children. This conceptual framework forms the basis from which quality-of-life instruments can be developed.

Atopic dermatitis update

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Atopic dermatitis, one of the most common chronic illnesses of childhood, is encountered routinely by all providers of health care to children.

RECENT FINDINGS

In recent years there has been a dramatic rise in the prevalence of atopic dermatitis and therefore a rapid increase in the number of studies investigating various aspects of the disease. Consequently, hundreds of publications are released each year, and it is difficult to stay up to date on the latest advances.

SUMMARY

This review will examine and summarize recent literature on the diagnosis, epidemiology, pathogenesis, treatment, and complications of atopic dermatitis.

Endotoxin exposure and eczema in the first year of life

OBJECTIVE

Exposure to endotoxin in early life has been proposed as a factor that may protect against the development of allergic diseases such as eczema. The objective of this study was to examine the relation between endotoxin exposure in early life and eczema in the first year of life in children with parental history of asthma or allergies.

METHODS

This study used a prospective birth cohort study of 498 children who had a history of allergy or asthma in at least 1 parent and lived in metropolitan Boston. A subset of 401 living rooms had house dust samples adequate for analysis of endotoxin.

RESULTS

In multivariate analyses adjusting for gender, income, and season of birth, endotoxin levels in the living room at 2 to 3 months of age was inversely associated with physician- or nurse-diagnosed eczema in the first year of life (odds ratio [OR] for each quartile increment: 0.76; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.61-0.96). Exposure to a dog in the home at age 2 to 3 months was also inversely associated with eczema in the first year of life, but the CI widened when endotoxin was included in the multivariate model (OR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.27-1.09). Other variables associated with eczema in the first year of life included paternal history of eczema (OR: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.03-3.55) and maternal specific immunoglobulin E positivity to > or =1 allergen (OR: 1.61; 95% CI: 1.01-2.56).

CONCLUSIONS

Among children with parental history of asthma or allergies, exposure to high levels of endotoxin in early life may be protective against eczema in the first year of life. In these children, paternal history of eczema and maternal sensitization to at least 1 allergen are associated with an increased risk of eczema in the first year of life.

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma and atopy: is there an association?

BACKGROUND

Case reports have suggested a relationship between atopic diatheses and Sézary syndrome, pre-Sézary syndrome or mycosis fungoides. However, Sézary and pre-Sézary syndromes are rare entities, and this association has never been analysed in greater detail for specific subtypes of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the prevalence of atopy in subjects with Sézary syndrome, pre-Sézary syndrome or mycosis fungoides, and to compare the rates with the reported prevalence of atopy in the general population.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 157 patients with the diagnosis of Sézary or pre-Sézary syndrome seen between 1965 and 2000, and 102 patients with the diagnosis of mycosis fungoides evaluated from 1994 to 2000 at Mayo Clinic.

RESULTS

Of 157 subjects with Sézary or pre-Sézary syndrome and 102 subjects with mycosis fungoides, 18 and 12, respectively, were identified as having a history of atopic dermatitis, asthma or allergic rhinitis. The prevalence rates of atopy in Sézary or pre-Sézary syndrome and mycosis fungoides were 11.5% (95% confidence interval 6.9-17.5%) and 11.8% (6.2-19.7%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant difference exists in the prevalence of atopy in Sézary or pre-Sézary syndrome compared with that in mycosis fungoides (chi2-test, P = 1.00). Furthermore, the rates of atopy in Sézary or pre-Sézary syndrome and mycosis fungoides are not significantly different from the prevalence of atopy in the general population (17-40%). On the basis of these observations, no evidence currently implicates a causal association of CTCL with atopy.

Perinatal predictors of atopic dermatitis occurring in the first six months of life

OBJECTIVE

Previous studies of predictors of atopic dermatitis have had limited sample size, small numbers of variables, or retrospective data collection. The purpose of this prospective study was to investigate several perinatal predictors of atopic dermatitis occurring in the first 6 months of life.

DESIGN

We report findings from 1005 mothers and their infants participating in Project Viva, a US cohort study of pregnant women and their offspring. The main outcome measure was maternal report of a provider's diagnosis of eczema or atopic dermatitis in the first 6 months of life. We used multiple logistic regression models to assess the associations between several simultaneous predictors and incidence of atopic dermatitis.

RESULTS

Cumulative incidence of atopic dermatitis in the first 6 months of life was 17.1%. Compared with infants born to white mothers, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) for risk of atopic dermatitis among infants born to black mothers was 2.41 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.47, 3.94) and was 2.58 among infants born to Asian mothers (95% CI: 1.27, 5.24). Male infants had an OR of 1.76 (95% CI: 1.24, 2.51). Increased gestational age at birth was a predictor (OR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.27, for each 1-week increment), but birth weight for gestational age was not. Infants born to mothers with a history of eczema had an OR of 2.67 (95% CI: 1.74, 4.10); paternal history of eczema also was predictive, although maternal atopic history was more predictive than paternal history. Several other perinatal, social, feeding, and environmental variables were not related to risk of atopic dermatitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Black and Asian race/ethnicity, male gender, higher gestational age at birth, and family history of atopy, particularly maternal history of eczema, were associated with increased risk of atopic dermatitis in the first 6 months of life. These findings suggest that genetic and pre- and perinatal influences are important in the early presentation of this condition.

Role of mild cleansing in the management of patient skin

Routine everyday care of skin is an essential part of optimal patient management. Common problems such as xerosis, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, and photodamage leave the skin vulnerable to external insults, partly as a result of varying levels of barrier dysfunction. Cosmetic surgery procedures also typically damage the stratum corneum (SC) and leave skin with a very weak barrier during recovery phase. Cleansing is an important aspect of any skin care, since it not only removes unwanted dirt, soil, and bacteria from skin, but also removes dead surface cells, preparing skin to better absorb topically applied drugs/medication. Care must be taken to minimize any further weakening of the SC barrier during cleansing. Cleansers based on mild synthetic surfactants and/or emollients that cause minimal barrier perturbation are ideal for these patients. The present paper is a brief review of four clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy and compatibility of either mild syndet bars or cleansers in patients with atopic dermatitis, acne, rosacea, or patients who had received chemical peels or Retin-A(R) (tretinoin) treatment for sustained photodamage.

Pediatric molluscum contagiosum: optimal treatment strategies

Pediatric molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) is a common pox viridae infection that represents a common public health issue. The spread of the virus among children is rapid and easy. The virus produces a number of substances that block immune response formation in the infected host. Despite the benign and self-limited nature of the condition, one-third of children have symptoms from, or secondary reactions to the infection, including pruritus, erythema and, occasionally, inflammation and pain. Patients with pruritus autoinoculate the virus through scratching, thereby exacerbating their conditions. While adults cope well with unanesthetized curettage of lesions, children require less painful therapeutic options. The options for therapy are manifold. Therapy should begin with gentle skin care and antipruritics to prevent symptoms, and to prevent the spread of the disease. Therapies with good efficacy and low risk of pain for the patient include in-office usage of cantharidin and the use of local anesthetics, such as topical lidocaine (lignocaine) preparations in combination with the curettage of visible lesions. Alternatively, cryosurgery can be performed to eradicate lesions in-office. At-home therapeutics are often preferred by parents and children, and include imiquimod, retinoids, and alpha-hydroxy acids. Although a variety of such at-home therapies are available, none are as effective or as rapid acting as in-office therapy. Further research in large clinical trials is required to increase knowledge on prevention, optimal treatment, and long-term outcome with this disease.

A prospective study of the prevalence and incidence of atopic dermatitis in children aged 0-42 months

BACKGROUND

There is strong evidence that the incidence and prevalence of atopic diseases is increasing. However, estimates of the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) have varied greatly in the U.K. and most parts of the developed world.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence and incidence of AD between the ages of 0 and 42 months in children born in the 1990s in a defined population in the U.K.

DESIGN

We used data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Pregnancy and Childhood (ALSPAC), a large population-based study in the U.K. that enrolled all pregnant mothers who were resident in Avon and had their delivery date falling between 1 April 1991 and 31 December 1992. Since then ALSPAC has collected a wide range of data from the newborns and their parents. Data reported here were collected at 6, 18, 30 and 42 months using parental reports in a postal questionnaire. Of the 14 009 children originally enrolled 8530 provided information on AD in each of the four follow-up questionnaires. We defined AD as a report of rash in at least two of the four questionnaires. Incidence risk was defined as the percentage of new cases of AD between follow-up questionnaires, out of the total number of children whose parents had not reported that they had AD by the time of the previous follow-up.

RESULTS

Period prevalence of 21.0%, 25.6%, 23.2% and 19.9% were observed at ages 0-6, 6-18, 18-30 and 30-42 months, respectively. The corresponding incidence risks were 21.0%, 11.2% and 3.8%, at 0-6, 6-18 and 18-30 months, respectively. There were no gender differences in either the incidence or prevalence of the disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from this large, prospective study are consistent with recent reports of increased incidence and prevalence of AD. Health planners can use our estimates of incidence and prevalence to project the number of children likely to suffer from AD during infancy and early childhood, and thus to determine the human and financial resources required.

Azathioprine as a treatment for severe atopic eczema in children with a partial thiopurine methyl transferase (TPMT) deficiency

Azathioprine is a valuable agent in the treatment of severe childhood atopic eczema. Thiopurine methyl transferase (TPMT) exhibits autosomal codominant polymorphism and plays an important role in the metabolism of azathioprine. In most large population groups studied to date, approximately 10% of the population had intermediate activity due to heterozygosity at the TPMT locus, and about 0.33% were TPMT deficient. TPMT deficiency results in the accumulation of thioguanine nucleotides and cytotoxic 6-mercaptopurine metabolites. Previously it was considered unsafe to treat this group with azathioprine because of what was considered to be an unacceptably high risk of toxicity (profound myelosuppression). Better understanding of the pharmacogenetics of purine metabolism has changed this, and with appropriate dose adjustments, individuals who have a partial TPMT deficiency (heterozygotes) can now be treated with thiopurines. It seems probable that these individuals are more likely to have a therapeutic response while being at lower risk of developing dose-related hepatotoxicity because of the reduced doses required to effect a therapeutic response. Two patients with severe refractory atopic eczema, both of whom had a partial TPMT deficiency, have had an excellent response to treatment with azathioprine. They were treated with half-standard doses and response to treatment occurred within 2 weeks.

Long-term safety of tacrolimus ointment in children treated for atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing, highly pruritic inflammatory skin disease that is particularly prevalent in the paediatric population. Emollients and topical corticosteroids have represented the standard of treatment for patients with AD, despite their numerous adverse effects and patients' tendency towards steroid resistance. Topical tacrolimus marks the introduction of an entirely new class of medications, the non-corticosteroid topical immunomodulators. Numerous short- and long-term and ongoing paediatric and adult studies have demonstrated the excellent efficacy and superb safety profile of this anti-inflammatory agent. The authors review many of these landmark studies and discuss the mechanism of action and safety profile of tacrolimus, in the context of the pathophysiology of AD.

Adverse events occurring after smallpox vaccination

We reviewed the literature on adverse events reported to occur after smallpox vaccination. Nearly one-half of the United States population is vaccinia-naïve and may be at risk for development of serious adverse events. We describe the clinical features of postvaccinial central nervous system disease, progressive vaccinia, eczema vaccinatum, accidental implantations, "generalized vaccinia," and the common erythematous and/or urticarial rashes. In the 1960s, death occurred approximately once in every million primary vaccinations, with fatalities resulting from progressive vaccinia, postvaccinial encephalitis, and eczema vaccinatum. Death in revaccinees occurred less commonly and almost entirely from progressive vaccinia. In today's population, death rates might be higher because of the increased prevalence of immune deficiency and atopic dermatitis.

Tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of atopic dermatitis: report of first clinical experience in Taiwan

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a pruritic recurring inflammatory skin disease. Recently, topical tacrolimus has been developed to treat AD. This report presents the first clinical experience with topical tacrolimus in Taiwan. This open-label, single-arm study was conducted at three centers from February to May 2002. The duration of each individual treatment was 4 weeks. Two groups were defined: pediatric and adult. Efficacy was evaluated on the basis of the physician's global evaluation at the end of treatment. Success was defined as at least 50% improvement. Other evaluations included the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), the percentage of body surface area (BSA) involved, the patient's assessment of pruritus, and the patient's assessment of overall response. Safety profile was established by monitoring changes in hematology and biochemistry profiles and tacrolimus concentration in blood. All adverse events were recorded. Twenty-six pediatric patients and 42 adult patients were enrolled. Overall success rates were 80.8% and 82.1% in the pediatric and adult groups, respectively. The declines in EASI, percentage of BSA affected, and patient's assessment of pruritus were significant (p < 0.001); 88% and 100% of pediatric and adult patients, respectively, reported a favorable response to treatment. Changes in blood samples were unremarkable. Of pediatric and adult patients, 61.5% and 76.2%, respectively, reported adverse events. The most common adverse event reported was skin burning, which did not result in discontinuation of therapy. This report reveals that tacrolimus ointment is effective and safe for the treatment of AD in Taiwanese patients.

Elidel (pimecrolimus) cream 1%: a nonsteroidal topical agent for the treatment of atopic dermatitis

Elidel is a steroid-free cream containing a 1% strength of the topical immunomodulator pimecrolimus. Elidel was specifically developed as a treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) and is approved for use in children as young as 2 years of age. The production of inflammatory cytokines by activated T cells in skin is thought to play an important role in the pathogenesis of AD. Elidel potently suppresses cytokine production by dermal T cells without significantly impairing systemic immune responses. Elidel does not cause steroid-associated local effects, such as dermal atrophy, striae, or telangiectasia. In randomized controlled clinical studies, twice-daily application of Elidel was shown to significantly improve the signs and symptoms of AD in infants, children, and adults. The clinical effect of Elidel on pruritus, the most troublesome symptom of AD, can be observed within 1 week of therapy and is maintained for the duration of treatment. Elidel is well tolerated; the risk of application-site reactions, such as itching or burning, is comparable with that of the vehicle. Adverse effects were generally mild in patients receiving Elidel and occurred at rates comparable with those in patients receiving vehicle treatment. In a 1-year study, Elidel significantly reduced the incidence of flares when used at the first signs and symptoms of acute AD. As a result, overall corticosteroid use to treat flares was significantly lower in patients using Elidel for early intervention.

The epidemiology of atopic dermatitis in Italian schoolchildren

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is common in children in industrialized countries. Only one large population study on its prevalence has been conducted in Italy, based on self-report questionnaire. The present study was designed to estimate the prevalence of AD in schoolchildren in Italy by dermatologists' assessment and by UK Working Party criteria, and to investigate associated symptoms and factors.

METHODS

Cross-sectional survey on a random sample of 9-year-old schoolchildren from seven Italian cities. Children were examined by experienced dermatologists. Parents and teachers answered standardized questionnaires.

RESULTS

Of the 1369 children examined, 88 had a diagnosis of AD, with an estimated point prevalence of 5.8% (95% CI 4.5-7.1) in the reference population. The reported lifetime prevalence was 15.2 (95% CI 12.2-18.2) for AD, 11.9% (95% CI 9.0-14.8) for asthma, and 17.6% (95% CI 14.6-20.7) for rhino-conjunctivitis. The strongest associated factor was the presence of AD in at least one parent. No association of AD with maternal smoking during pregnancy, birth weight, maternal age at the time of the child birth and breast-feeding was observed. The environmental characteristics of the house and the school did not correlate with the prevalence of AD. Episodes of lower respiratory tract infections were associated with asthma, and to a lower extent also with AD and rhinitis.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of doctor-diagnosed AD in Italian schoolchildren is comparable to those reported for other developed countries. Family history of atopy was the single most important associated factor, while the complex interplay of environmental factors remains to be elucidated.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of tacrolimus ointment versus high-potency topical corticosteroids in adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis

BACKGROUND

Few cost-effectiveness analyses have been conducted on topical therapies for atopic dermatitis.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to compare cost-effectiveness of high-potency topical corticosteroids (HPTCs) and tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis for patients who are not responsive to or not well controlled with mid-potency topical corticosteroids.

METHODS

A Markov model represented the cyclic nature of atopic dermatitis. Clinical outcomes were derived from published literature. "Efficacy" was defined as disease-controlled days on which patients experienced a greater than 75% improvement in their disease. Resource use and changes in management were on the basis of opinions of a physician panel; secondary treatment was an oral antibiotic with topical corticosteroids. Sensitivity analyses were conducted for all variables.

RESULTS

The model was sensitive to duration of continuous treatment with HPTCs. HPTCs, when limited to 2-week treatment cycles, were associated with the highest total costs ($1682 per year) and the least efficacy (185 disease-controlled days). HPTCs in 4-week treatment intervals and tacrolimus ointment were similar in total costs and efficacy ($1317 vs $1323 for 194 vs 190 disease-controlled days, respectively). Although primary drug costs were higher for patients treated with tacrolimus ointment, patients treated with regimens of HPTCs incurred higher secondary drug costs.

CONCLUSION

In the base case analyses, tacrolimus ointment was more cost-effective than HPTCs administered in 2-week treatment cycles, and similar in cost-effectiveness to 4-week cycles of HPTCs.

Fluocinolone acetonide 0.01% in peanut oil: therapy for childhood atopic dermatitis, even in patients who are peanut sensitive

BACKGROUND

Fluocinolone acetonide 0.01% in a blend of refined peanut and mineral oils has been used as treatment for scalp psoriasis for several years, but only more recently for atopic dermatitis.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to study the effectiveness for atopic dermatitis, potential for adrenal axis suppression, and safety of the fluocinolone acetonide 0.01% in oil in children with atopic dermatitis, including children with atopic dermatitis and peanut allergic sensitivity.

METHODS

Three separate studies were performed in children aged 2 to 12 years with atopic dermatitis: multicenter double-blind, randomized, and vehicle-controlled trial; cortisol stimulation testing; and prick testing, patch testing, and monitored medication use in children with peanut allergic sensitivity.

RESULTS

Improvement of >/=50% was demonstrated within 2 weeks in 81% to 87% of 81 patients treated with active medication versus 39% of 45 children treated with vehicle oil alone. No adrenal suppression occurred after 4 weeks of therapy in 32 patients. None of 9 patients who were peanut sensitive reacted to either the full formulation or vehicle in prick or patch testing; 20 children who were peanut sensitive showed no allergic reactions after application of the medication.

CONCLUSION

Fluocinolone 0.01% in peanut oil is an effective alternative to the use of topical corticosteroid agents in ointment, cream, and lotion forms in children. No evidence of adrenal suppression or adverse local effects were demonstrated in these studies. The medication was well tolerated in patients with peanut allergic sensitivity.

Atopic dermatitis and asthma: parallels in the evolution of treatment

OBJECTIVES

To review epidemiologic correlations between asthma and atopic dermatitis (AD), identify common features in disease pathophysiology, and review steps involved in the development of asthma therapy guidelines to assess the appropriateness of a similar process and approach for AD.

METHODS

A 7-member panel representing specialists in dermatology, allergy, asthma, immunology, and pediatrics from around the United States convened to review the current literature and evolving data on AD. Participants presented reviews to the panel on the epidemiology of asthma and AD, the genetic predisposition to allergic disease, the current understanding of the immunopathophysiology of AD, interrelationships between the pathologic pathways of asthma and AD, evolving treatment concepts and options in AD, and the applicability of the asthma treatment model and how it may be adapted for guideline development for AD. Commentary and criticism were recorded for use in document preparation.

RESULTS

There are clear epidemiologic parallels in asthma and AD. Importantly, AD frequently is the first manifestation of an atopic diathesis, which occurs in genetically predisposed individuals and also includes asthma and allergic rhinitis. Up to 80% of children with AD will eventually develop allergic rhinitis or asthma later in childhood. This classic "atopic triad" has numerous pathophysiologic elements in common, including cyclic nucleotide regulatory abnormalities, immune cell alterations, and inflammatory mediators and allergic triggers. New therapeutic options that target underlying immune mechanisms are available, and their place among treatments for AD is becoming established. Guidelines of care have been developed for asthma. The panel noted that the National Institutes of Health/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute guidelines for diagnosis and management of asthma, first issued in 1991, had a tremendous positive impact on many aspects of asthma treatment. It not only created a heightened awareness that asthma is a disease of chronic inflammation, but it also provided unified approaches for therapy and opened new areas of basic science and clinical research. In addition, the guidelines spurred interactions among physicians of various specialties and stimulated a great quantity of research in asthma therapy. It is anticipated that AD therapy guidelines would have similar positive outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The panel concluded that, on the basis of current information and evolving therapeutic options, a clear rationale exists to support AD guideline development. The many parallels between AD and asthma suggest that processes and approaches used for the asthma therapy guidelines would be appropriate for AD.

The family impact of atopic dermatitis in children: the role of the parent caregiver

Although some preliminary work exists examining the impact of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children on their families, there is no empirical work examining specific parent caregiver factors that could contribute to the family impact of this condition. We conducted a cross-sectional, exploratory analysis of how parent caregivers are affected by their child's AD, and how certain parent caregiver characteristics and perceptions affect the family impact of this condition. Parent caregivers of children with AD (n = 49) were administered a survey to collect detailed data on socioeconomic status, health perceptions, and caregiving issues. Family impact of the child's AD was measured using a modified AD Family Impact Scale. Multiple regression analyses revealed that three major factors associated with the parent caregiver were correlated with large increases in the family impact scores: 1) perception that the child's condition is severe (13%, p < 0.01), 2) high use of nonmedical services for child's condition (21%, p < 0.01), and 3) financial concern about the child's condition (18%, p < 0.01). These preliminary data indicate distinct characteristics of the parent caregiver that are associated with higher family impact of AD in children. These parent caregiver factors may be important in identifying suitable audiences and areas for education for optimal management of children's AD.

Eyelid dermatitis: experience in 203 cases

Allergic contact dermatitis has been considered the most common of the many dermatologic conditions found with eyelid dermatitis. This is a retrospective study of 203 patients who presented with persistent or recurrent eyelid dermatitis with or without dermatitis elsewhere. Almost all underwent patch testing and, when indicated, radioallergosorbent test, skin prick and intradermal tests, and in many cases, usage tests as part of the workup. Relevant allergic contact dermatitis was found in 151 of 203 patients (74.%): 46 (23.%) had protein contact dermatitis, but only 7% had protein contact dermatitis without concurrent allergic contact dermatitis. Less than 1% had irritant dermatitis alone. Twenty-three patients had atopic eczema, of whom 16 also had allergic contact dermatitis, protein contact dermatitis, or both. Other conditions included seborrheic dermatitis (n = 11), psoriasis (n = 7), dry eyes (n = 9), and dermatomyositis or overlapping connective tissue disease (n = 7). Important sources of contact sensitivity include cosmetics, metals, topical medications including corticosteroids, eye medications, dust mites, animal dander, and artificial nails; only 5 cases were caused by nail lacquer. Eyelid dermatitis is a multifaceted clinical problem, but in this group of patients, allergic contact dermatitis was a common cause, even among those with atopic eczema.

Reliance on erythema scores may mask severe atopic dermatitis in black children compared with their white counterparts

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) has been shown to be higher in London-born black Caribbean children than in their white counterparts, but little is known about the severity of the disease.

OBJECTIVES

To carry out a longitudinal survey to investigate potential risk factors for AD severity in children. We report our findings in relation to differences in disease severity between white and black children and the effect of inclusion and exclusion of erythema scores on this comparison.

METHODS

The recruited children were identified by their general practitioners (GPs) as having presented with AD, and the U.K. diagnostic criteria for AD were used to verify the diagnosis. Interview and clinical examination of children took place up to four times, 6 months apart. Each time, the same observer assessed AD severity using the SCORAD (SCORe Atopic Dermatitis) index. Potential risk factors and confounders were evaluated with a five-page questionnaire. Non-parametric tests were used for statistical analysis and the study participant remained the unit of the analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 137 children (82 urban and 55 rural) were recruited, and each seen up to four times. This gave 380 observations (69% of an expected 548). The urban population contained 42 (51%) white children, 26 (32%) black children and 14 (17%) from other races. The rural population was entirely white. The 14 children from other races were completely excluded from the statistical analysis. The black children were all born in the U.K. On crude analysis, children with black skin showed a non-significantly lower risk of severe disease when compared with white children (odds ratio, OR 0.84; 95% confidence interval, CI 0.4-1.76; P = 0.65), while a highly significantly increased risk was found after adjusting for erythema score (OR 5.93; 95% CI 1.94-18.12; P = 0.002). The difference remained significant even after controlling for other potential confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

Black children with AD are about six times more at risk of having severe AD than their white counterparts. GPs and dermatologists should note that erythema can be a misleading indicator of severity in black children. Difficulties of assessment due to skin pigmentation might mean that severe cases are not being detected and appropriately treated.

Tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of atopic dermatitis is not associated with an increase in cutaneous infections

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of cutaneous infection in patients with atopic dermatitis treated with tacrolimus ointment.

METHODS

Data for 1554 patients with atopic dermatitis, treated with tacrolimus ointment in 5 clinical trials, were analyzed.

RESULTS

In 3 controlled studies, the 12-week adjusted incidence of all cutaneous infections in patients treated with the vehicle, 0.03%, and 0.1% tacrolimus ointment, respectively, was 18.0%, 24.8%, and 17.7% for adult patients, and 20.9%, 19.6%, and 23.6% for pediatric patients. The incidence of any individual cutaneous infection was not significantly higher in the tacrolimus group than in the vehicle group, with the exception of folliculitis in adults. In two open-label studies, there was no evidence of an increased risk of cutaneous infections with long-term use of 0.1% tacrolimus ointment (up to 1 year), based on the incidence of adverse events, incidence by cumulative length of exposure, or hazard rates.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with tacrolimus ointment (0.03% or 0.1%) does not increase the risk of cutaneous bacterial, viral, or fungal infections in patients with atopic dermatitis.

Smallpox vaccination: Risk considerations for patients with atopic dermatitis

As the threat of bioterrorism with pathogenic microbes such as smallpox virus (Variola major) increases, the question of widespread voluntary vaccination with smallpox (vaccinia) vaccines is being carefully considered. A major challenge lies in the ability to protect the population from the disease while minimizing the considerable side effects from the vaccine. Individuals with active or quiescent atopic dermatitis are at increased risk for vaccinia complications. The nature of these complications and other considerations are summarized in this rostrum.

Intermittent dosing of fluticasone propionate cream for reducing the risk of relapse in atopic dermatitis patients

BACKGROUND

One of the most troublesome features of atopic dermatitis (AD) is its chronic relapsing nature, and there is a lack of published evidence on the best treatment strategy for long-term management of the disease.

OBJECTIVE

To compare an intermittent dosing regimen of fluticasone propionate (FP) cream 0.05% (twice per week) with its vehicle base in reducing the risk of relapse when added to regular daily emollient in adult and paediatric subjects with stabilized AD.

METHODS

Subjects (aged 3 months to 65 years) with moderate or severe AD were enrolled into an open-label Stabilization Phase of up to 4 weeks on daily emollients plus FP twice daily. Those subjects who achieved 'treatment success' (Global Assessment Score </= 2, erythema, pruritus, and papulation/induration/oedema scores </= 1) entered the double-blind Maintenance Phase. They continued with regular emollients and were randomized at a 2 : 1 ratio to either intermittent FP or vehicle, once daily 4 days per week for 4 weeks followed by once daily 2 days per week for 16 weeks. Subjects who relapsed on intermittent FP were discontinued from the study. Those who did not relapse continued for an additional 24 weeks on intermittent dosing for safety monitoring.

RESULTS

A total of 372 (247 paediatric, 125 adult) subjects were enrolled into the Stabilization Phase. Of these, 348 (231 children, 117 adults) were randomized into the Maintenance Phase. Analysis of the primary efficacy parameter showed that subjects receiving intermittent FP cream (twice per week), in addition to regular daily emollients in the Maintenance Phase, were 7.7 times less likely to have an AD relapse than subjects receiving intermittent vehicle cream/emollients [Mantel-Haenszel (MH) estimate of the odds ratio, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.6, 12.8; P < 0.001]. Paediatric subjects were 8.1 times less likely to have an AD relapse (95% CI 4.3, 15.2; P < 0.001) and adult subjects were 7.0 times less likely to have an AD relapse (95% CI 3.0, 16.7; P < 0.001). For subjects receiving intermittent FP cream/emollient, the median time to relapse could not be estimated as the majority remained controlled at 20 weeks. For those receiving intermittent vehicle/emollient, the median time to relapse was 4.7 weeks. For paediatric and adult groups, this was 5.1 and 4.1 weeks, respectively. Median exposure to FP for all subjects was 337 days. There was only one study drug-related adverse event (acne) and there were no reports of skin thinning or atrophy associated with the use of FP cream in paediatric or adult subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

In paediatric and adult subjects, once stabilized with regular FP treatment, the risk of relapse of AD can be significantly reduced by extended intermittent dosing with FP cream in addition to regular emollient therapy.

Ceramide-dominant barrier repair lipids alleviate childhood atopic dermatitis: changes in barrier function provide a sensitive indicator of disease activity

BACKGROUND

It is currently fashionable to consider atopic dermatitis (AD), like other inflammatory dermatoses, as immunologic in pathogenesis ("inside-outside" hypothesis). Accordingly, topical glucocorticoids and other immunosuppressive agents are mainstays of therapy, but the risk of toxicity from these agents is not insignificant, particularly in children. Alternatively, because stratum corneum (SC) permeability barrier function is also abnormal in AD, it has been hypothesized that the barrier abnormality could drive disease activity. Yet commonly used emollients and moisturizers do not correct the SC ceramide deficiency, the putative cause of the barrier abnormality.

OBJECTIVES

We assessed the efficacy of a newly developed, ceramide-dominant, physiologic lipid-based emollient, when substituted for currently used moisturizers, in 24 children who were also receiving standard therapy for stubborn-to-recalcitrant AD.

METHODS

All subjects continued prior therapy (eg, topical tacrolimus or corticosteroids), only substituting the barrier repair emollient for their prior moisturizer. Follow-up evaluations, which included severity scoring of atopic dermatitis (SCORAD) values and several biophysical measures of SC function, were performed every 3 weeks for 20 to 21 weeks.

RESULTS

SCORAD values improved significantly in 22 of 24 patients by 3 weeks, with further progressive improvement in all patients between 6 and 20 or 21 weeks. Transepidermal water loss levels (TEWL), which were elevated over involved and uninvolved areas at entry, decreased in parallel with SCORAD scores and continued to decline even after SCORAD scores plateaued. Both SC integrity (cohesion) and hydration also improved slowly but significantly during therapy. Finally, the ultrastructure of the SC, treated with ceramide-dominant emollient, revealed extracellular lamellar membranes, which were largely absent in baseline SC samples.

CONCLUSION

These studies suggest that (1) a ceramide-dominant, barrier repair emollient represents a safe, useful adjunct to the treatment of childhood AD and (2) TEWL is at least as sensitive an indicator of fluctuations in AD disease activity as are SCORAD values. These studies support the outside-inside hypothesis as a component of pathogenesis in AD and other inflammatory dermatoses that are accompanied by a barrier abnormality.

Atopic dermatitis: the role of recombinant interferon-gamma therapy

Atopic dermatitis is a common, chronic, relapsing cutaneous disease with typical cellular and humoral immunologic abnormalities that can result in significant physical and psychological morbidity to the patient. Atopic dermatitis typically begins in childhood and can often persist through adolescence into adulthood. Although there are a variety of treatments for atopic dermatitis, many patients' symptoms do not improve or they have adverse reactions to medications, requiring the search for other, effective therapeutic agents. A number of inflammatory and immunological abnormalities have long been noted in patients with atopic dermatitis. Although great strides have been made in understanding the causes, the complex pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis is still not completely understood. Most notably, patients with atopic dermatitis often have an elevation of serum immunoglobulin (Ig) E levels, depressed cellular immunity, elevated blood eosinophilia, and increased interleukin (IL)-4 production. In addition, peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with atopic dermatitis produce reduced levels of interferon-gamma spontaneously and in response to stimuli. Due to this constellation of features, atopic dermatitis was initially viewed as a prototypical type 2 helper T lymphocyte (T(h2)) disease. These immunological findings led to a number of clinical trials with recombinant interferon-gamma in patients who had severe, unremitting atopic dermatitis. Treatment with recombinant interferon-gamma was postulated to be able to correct the immunological imbalances in patients with atopic dermatitis by decreasing serum IgE levels, IL-4 levels, restoring immune balance, and thereby leading to clinical improvement. Initial open-label studies, a double-blind placebo trial, and long-term open-label studies have demonstrated the clinical efficacy and tolerability of recombinant interferon-gamma in a subset of patients with severe, unremitting atopic dermatitis. Patients receiving treatment often had marked decreases in severity of clinical parameters: erythema, edema/indurations, pruritus, excoriations, dryness, lichenification and associated reduction in total body surface area involvement. Surprisingly, treatment with recombinant interferon-gamma did not lower serum IgE levels refuting the hypothesized mechanism by which interferon-gamma would bring about clinical improvement in patients with atopic dermatitis. Instead, decreases were noted in absolute white blood cell and eosinophil counts that tended to correlate with clinical improvement. Although the exact mechanism by which recombinant interferon-gamma brings about clinical changes in patients with atopic dermatitis is unknown, recombinant interferon-gamma should be considered a possible therapy for patients with atopic dermatitis.

Safety and efficacy of pimecrolimus (ASM 981) cream 1% in the treatment of mild and moderate atopic dermatitis in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

The ascomycin derivative pimecrolimus (ASM 981) is a cell-selective cytokine inhibitor, specifically developed for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.

OBJECTIVE

When applied topically, pimecrolimus cream 1% has shown promise as a treatment for inflammatory skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis (AD) in children and adults, allergic contact dermatitis, and chronic contact irritant hand dermatitis in adults.

METHODS

In two independent 6-week, randomized, multicenter studies of identical design, the efficacy and safety of pimecrolimus cream 1% in children with predominantly moderate AD were compared with vehicle. Pooled data from a total of 403 patients were used in the analysis. The primary efficacy parameter was the Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) score. Secondary parameters included Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) and severity of pruritus scores. Subjects were also asked to assess their disease control as uncontrolled, limited, good, or complete.

RESULTS

Significant therapeutic benefits relative to vehicle were observed in the pimecrolimus-treated group at the first efficacy assessment, 8 days after initial application of the study medication (eg, relief of pruritus). At each subsequent postbaseline visit, pimecrolimus-treated patients showed significant improvement relative to controls in all efficacy measures. The medication was well tolerated.

CONCLUSION

Pimecrolimus cream 1% appears to be a safe and effective alternative to currently used therapies for AD.

Nickel contact hypersensitivity in children

Nickel allergic contact dermatitis is the most prevalent allergy in North America, with an incidence of 14.3%. It is on the rise from 10 years ago, when the incidence was 10%. This has been presumed to represent an increased exposure to nickel in the environment-especially in costume jewelry and belt buckles. We examined a group of 30 pediatric patients who had either a personal history of umbilical or wrist dermatitis, or a family history of nickel allergic contact dermatitis. All of these patients had a positive patch test to nickel sulfate 5%. Moreover, 50% of patients had an id reaction; all of these patients had positive patch tests that were papular in nature, similar to their papular id reaction. We posit that the presence of a positive family history may be a positive predictor of nickel allergic contact dermatitis, requiring nickel avoidance, especially in atopic children. Based on the high level of positive reactions in patients with umbilical dermatitis and an id reaction, patch testing to nickel in these patients is most likely to yield a useful result. Knowledge of reactivity to nickel would then allow parents and patients to initiate nickel avoidance earlier in life.

Cost of atopic dermatitis and eczema in the United States

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis/eczema (AD/E) is a common disease. Few studies have attempted to quantify the cost to third-party payers.

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to identify the annual cost of medical services and prescription drugs for the treatment of AD/E to private insurance and Medicaid payers in the United States.

METHODS

We used a retrospective study design employing claims data from 1997 and 1998 from a private insurer and a state Medicaid program to analyze costs incurred. Beneficiaries were considered to have AD/E if they had at least one claim in 1997 with a primary or secondary listing of 1 of 3 diagnosis codes: 691.8, other atopic dermatitis and related conditions; 692.9, contact dermatitis and other eczema when no cause is specified; or 373.3, noninfectious dermatoses of eyelid. Patients who did not meet the diagnosis criteria served as a control group in each payer for comparisons of expenditures with the AD/E group.

RESULTS

Disease prevalence was 2.4% (private insurer) to 2.6% (Medicaid) of all eligible beneficiaries, and 3.5% to 4.1% of patients submitted at least one health care claim during the study period. Medicaid-insured patients used outpatient hospital visits and hospitalizations at a greater rate than did privately insured patients; neither used emergency departments extensively. The third-party payer cost of illness for AD/E ranged from $0.9 billion to $3.8 billion when projected across the total number of persons younger than 65 years insured by private insurers and Medicaid in the United States. More than one fourth of all health care costs for patients with AD/E may be attributed to AD/E and co-morbid conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Annual costs of AD/E are similar to those of other diseases such as emphysema, psoriasis, and epilepsy. Patients incur significant costs associated with AD/E and co-morbid conditions.

Pimecrolimus cream 1%: a new development in nonsteroid topical treatment of inflammatory skin diseases

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of a family of inflammatory skin diseases (psoriasis, irritant contact dermatitis, and allergic contact dermatitis). Dermal inflammation and production of proinflammatory cytokines by activated T cells is a prominent and defining characteristic in all of these conditions. Corticosteroids, though effective and potent immunosuppressants, are associated with a number of systemic and local adverse effects. The ascomycin derivative pimecrolimus (formerly ASM 981) is a nonsteroid with topical anti-inflammatory activity. Pimecrolimus cream 1% is minimally absorbed into the circulation; thus, it has a low bioavailability-reducing the risk for systemic adverse effects. The efficacy and safety of pimecrolimus cream 1% has been well shown in diverse patient populations with inflammatory skin diseases in several well-controlled trials. Significant and rapid amelioration of the signs and symptoms of AD was established in 3 studies lasting 6 weeks each, evaluating 589 pediatric patients. In a 1-year study, pimecrolimus was applied at the first signs and symptoms of eczema to prevent the progression of AD to flares. Flares were prevented in over 50% of patients who used pimecrolimus cream 1%, reducing or completely eliminating the need for topical corticosteroids during a 1-year treatment period. Results in pimecrolimus studies in chronic irritant hand dermatitis and chronic hand dermatitis of mixed causes indicate potential for use in these important diseases, and further study in these indications is warranted.

Topical tacrolimus for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases

Chronic inflammatory skin disorders, such as atopic eczema, can cause considerable impairment of life quality. Their treatment is mainly driven by systemic or topical glucocorticosteroids which have the risk of many side effects. Recently, immunosuppressive macrolides which act via the inhibition of cytokine expression in T-lymphocytes have been shown to exert good therapeutic potency in inflammatory skin disorders. Cyclosporin, widely used in transplantation medicine, is also effective in psoriasis and atopic eczema but is not suitable for topical treatment. Tacrolimus (FK506) has been found to be 10-100 times more potent than cyclosporin and to penetrate skin much better due to a lower molecular weight. Initial clinical investigations have shown efficacy of topical tacrolimus in patients with atopic eczema. Large multi-centre studies have proven that long-term therapy with 0.03% and 0.1% tacrolimus ointment reveals effectiveness and safety both in adults and in children with severe atopic eczema. A burning sensation at the site of application is the most frequently observed local side effect. Relevant systemic adverse events were not detected. In Japan and the US, the drug is already licensed for the treatment of atopic eczema. The European admission for the pharmaceutical market is expected in the year 2002. Tacrolimus represents a milestone in topical therapy of inflammatory skin disorders which has so far been dominated by corticosteroid formulations and gives hope for the development of further topical immunosuppressive agents of its class in the future.

Testosterone perturbs epidermal permeability barrier homeostasis

Although there are no known gender-related differences in permeability barrier function in adults, estrogens accelerate whereas testosterone retards barrier development in fetal skin, and male fetuses demonstrate slower barrier development than female littermates. Moreover, prenatal administration of the androgen receptor antagonist, flutamide, equalizes developmental rates in male and female fetuses. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of changes in testosterone on barrier homeostasis in adult murine and human skin. Hypogonadal mice (whether by castration or by treatment with systemic flutamide) displayed significantly faster barrier recovery at 3, 6, and 12 h than did controls, and testosterone replacement slowed barrier recovery in castrated mice. Moreover, testosterone directly effects the skin, as topical flutamide also accelerated barrier recovery in normal male mice. These findings appear to be of physiologic significance, since prepubertal male mice (age 5 wk) displayed accelerated barrier recovery in comparison with adult postpubertal (11 wk) males. These studies also appear to be relevant for humans, as a hypopituitary human subject demonstrated repeated changes in barrier recovery in parallel with peaks and nadirs in serum testosterone levels during intermittent testosterone replacement. Mechanistic studies showed that differences in epidermal lipid synthesis do not account for the testosterone-induced functional alterations. Instead, epidermal lamellar body (LB) formation and secretion both decrease, resulting in decreased extracellular lamellar bilayers in testosterone-replete animals. These studies demonstrate that fluctuations in testosterone modulate barrier function, and that testosterone repletion can have negative consequences for permeability barrier homeostasis.

Tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of atopic dermatitis in adult patients: part I, efficacy

A total of 632 adults with atopic dermatitis applied tacrolimus ointment (0.03% or 0.1%) or vehicle twice daily for up to 12 weeks in two randomized, double-blind studies. This report focuses on the efficacy of tacrolimus ointment in these studies. The mean percent body surface area (%BSA) affected at baseline was 45%, and 56% of patients had severe atopic dermatitis. Evaluations included a physician's global evaluation of clinical response, %BSA affected, individual signs of atopic dermatitis, the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) score, and the patient's assessment of pruritus. A 90% or greater improvement from baseline in disease status was observed for 6.6%, 27.5%, and 36.8% of patients in the vehicle, 0.03% tacrolimus ointment, and 0.1% tacrolimus ointment groups, respectively (P<.001), and 50% or better improvement was observed for 19.8%, 61.6%, and 72.7% of patients, respectively. Tacrolimus ointment-treated patients showed significantly greater improvement than vehicle-treated patients for all efficacy parameters evaluated, including the %BSA affected, the total score and individual scores for signs of atopic dermatitis, the patient's assessment of pruritus, and EASI score. The 0.1% concentration was more effective than the 0.03% concentration, particularly in patients with severe disease and/or extensive BSA involvement at baseline and in African Americans. Tacrolimus ointment is an effective therapy for the treatment of adult patients with atopic dermatitis on all skin regions including the head and neck.

Cellular and immunologic mechanisms in atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is frequently associated with respiratory allergies. Atopic dermatitis develops as a result of a complex interrelationship of environmental, immunologic, genetic, and pharmacologic factors. Efforts to understand the relative contributions of these factors have led to research seeking to identify the relevant effector cells and mediators involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. These factors include the pattern of local cytokine release, the differentiation of helper T cells, multiple roles of IgE, skin-directed cell responses, infectious agents, and superantigens. This article reviews these cellular and immunologic mechanisms underlying atopic dermatitis and discusses how an understanding of their role in the inflammatory process may lead to improved treatments for atopic dermatitis.

Nonclinical and early clinical development of tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of atopic dermatitis

Tacrolimus ointment, formulated for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, is the first in a class of topical immunomodulators. Its mechanism of action is based on calcineurin inhibition, which results in suppression of antigen-specific T-cell activation and inhibition of inflammatory cytokine release. Animal and human studies have shown that topically applied tacrolimus is minimally absorbed into the systemic circulation, the fraction that is absorbed is extensively distributed, and tacrolimus does not accumulate in tissues following repeated topical application. In addition, tacrolimus ointment is not inherently irritating, sensitizing, phototoxic, or photoallergenic when applied to intact skin. Unlike some topical corticosteroids, tacrolimus ointment does not cause a decrease in collagen synthesis or skin thickness, nor does it produce skin abnormalities or depigmentation. In animal studies, repeated daily application of tacrolimus ointment up to 1 year is associated with dermal findings similar to those following vehicle application (mild to moderate dermal irritation and microscopic findings of acanthosis, hyperkeratosis, and superficial inflammation). In a 52-week study with Yucatan micropigs, no noteworthy macroscopic or microscopic changes (either dermal or systemic) related to the application of tacrolimus ointment (0.03% to 0.3% concentrations) were observed. Tacrolimus ointment was shown to be safe and effective in phase 2 and early phase 3 studies. Significant improvements in atopic dermatitis were observed in the majority of patients treated with tacrolimus ointment. The most common adverse events associated with its use were a transient burning sensation and pruritus at the site of application. Blood tacrolimus concentrations were below the limit of quantitation in most patients.