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. 2012:2012:836931.
doi: 10.1155/2012/836931. Epub 2012 Sep 13.

Management of patients with atopic dermatitis: the role of emollient therapy

M Catherine Mack Correa  1 , Judith Nebus
Affiliations

Management of patients with atopic dermatitis: the role of emollient therapy

M Catherine Mack Correa et al. Dermatol Res Pract. 2012.

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin disorder that afflicts a growing number of young children. Genetic, immune, and environmental factors interact in a complex fashion to contribute to disease expression. The compromised stratum corneum found in atopic dermatitis leads to skin barrier dysfunction, which results in aggravation of symptoms by aeroallergens, microbes, and other insults. Infants-whose immune system and epidermal barrier are still developing-display a higher frequency of atopic dermatitis. Management of patients with atopic dermatitis includes maintaining optimal skin care, avoiding allergic triggers, and routinely using emollients to maintain a hydrated stratum corneum and to improve barrier function. Flares of atopic dermatitis are often managed with courses of topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors. This paper discusses the role of emollients in the management of atopic dermatitis, with particular emphasis on infants and young children.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Prevalence of atopic dermatitis in Greek schoolchildren, 1991–2008 [3].
Figure 2
Figure 2
Skin of individuals with atopic dermatitis is fundamentally different compared with healthy skin.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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