Comparison of bleach, acetic acid, and other topical anti-infective treatments in pediatric atopic dermatitis: A retrospective cohort study on antibiotic exposure

Practical considerations relevant to treatment with the gene therapy beremagene geperpavec-svdt for dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB), a rare genetic skin disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in COL7A1, the gene encoding type VII collagen (COL7), is characterized by skin blistering, scarring, and extracutaneous manifestations that markedly reduce patient quality-of-life. Beremagene geperpavec-svdt ('B-VEC') is a gene therapy employing a non-integrating, replication-defective herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1)-based vector encoding two copies of full-length human COL7A1 to restore COL7 protein after topical administration to DEB wounds. B-VEC was approved in the United States in 2023 as the first topical gene therapy and the first approved treatment for DEB. However, few providers have experience with use of this gene therapy.

METHODS

Data was obtained through literature review and the experience of providers who participated in the B-VEC clinical study or initiated treatment after B-VEC approval.

RESULTS

This review discusses the burden of disease, describes the clinical trial outcomes of B-VEC, and provides physician and patient/caregiver recommendations as a practical guide for the real-world use of B-VEC, which can be administered in-office or at the patient's home.

CONCLUSIONS

By continuing to optimize the practical aspects of B-VEC administration, the focus will continue to shift to patient-centric considerations and improved patient outcomes.

The role of sodium hypochlorite in atopic dermatitis therapy: a narrative review

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin disorder, especially in the pediatric population. Genetic and immunological factors, epidermal barrier defect, as well as skin microbiota imbalance with increased colonization by Staphylococcus aureus (SA) are involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. One of the AD topical treatments is sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) as a 0.005% water bath solution. This substance has been used for years as an antiseptic preparation. Studies show that NaOCl has an antimicrobial effect but probably at higher concentrations than those used in AD treatment. Nevertheless, many research studies confirm the anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effects of NaOCl, which contributes to clinical improvement in AD patients as well as reducing the need for local steroids and antibiotics. Bleach baths seem to be a well tolerated, cheap, and easily available therapy. However, research still should be continued to evaluate its antibacterial efficacy, anti-inflammatory effects, and safety.

Acetic acid and the skin: a review of vinegar in dermatology

Vinegar is commonly used as a home remedy for many skin problems. It is important for dermatologists to understand the evidence supporting its use in skin disease, as well as potential adverse effects, so they can properly counsel patients on the safe use of this widely available treatment. Vinegar possesses antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that provide utility in wound care as well as bacterial and fungal infections. There is also evidence to support its use in pruritus, head lice removal, and treatment of striae gravidarum. While generally safe, inappropriate use can result in damage to the skin. In this review, we discuss the evidence supporting vinegar as a treatment for skin disease, as well as adverse events reported from misuse, to provide dermatologists the knowledge to counsel patients on the safe and appropriate use of vinegar.

The infectious complications of atopic dermatitis

OBJECTIVE

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is complicated by an increased risk for skin and systemic infections. Preventive therapy for AD is based on skin barrier improvement and anti-inflammatory treatments, whereas overt skin and systemic infections require antibiotics or antiviral treatments. This review updates the pathophysiology, diagnosis, management, controversy of antibiotic use, and potential treatments of infectious complications of AD.

DATA SOURCES

Published literature obtained through PubMed database searches and clinical pictures.

STUDY SELECTIONS

Studies relevant to the mechanisms, diagnosis, management, and potential therapy of infectious complications of AD.

RESULTS

Skin barrier defects, type 2 inflammation, Staphylococcusaureus colonization, and cutaneous dysbiosis are the major predisposing factors for the increased infections in AD. Although overt infections require antibiotics, the use of antibiotics in AD exacerbation remains controversial.

CONCLUSION

Infectious complications are a comorbidity of AD. Although not common, systemic bacterial infections and eczema herpeticum can be life-threatening. Preventive therapy of infections in AD emphasizes skin barrier improvement and anti-inflammatory therapy. The use of antibiotics in AD exacerbation requires further studies.

Topical and Oral Therapies for Childhood Atopic Dermatitis and Plaque Psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Treatment of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis in children is difficult due to lack of standardized treatment guidelines and few FDA-approved treatment options. Treatments approved for adults may be used off-label in pediatric patients.

OBJECTIVE

This review evaluates the topical and oral treatment options available, including off-label uses, and provides a basic therapeutic guideline for pediatric atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

METHODS

A PubMed review of topical and systemic treatments for pediatric psoriasis and atopic dermatitis with information regarding age, efficacy, dosing, contra-indications, adverse events, and off-label treatments.

RESULTS

The search identified seven topical and five systemic treatments that are routinely employed to treat pediatric atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

LIMITATIONS

Standardized guidelines regarding treatment choice, dosing, and long-term safety are scarce. Reviews may be subject to ascertainment bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Current treatment guidelines are based on clinical experience and expert advice with few treatments officially approved for atopic dermatitis and psoriasis in children.