The Challenge of Managing Atopic Dermatitis in the United States

Abstract

Background: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects up to 13% of children and 10% of adults in the United States. Among patients and their families, atopic dermatitis has a considerable effect on quality of life and represents a substantial economic burden.

Objective: To describe the impact and challenges of atopic dermatitis and to provide nondermatologists in the healthcare community an enhanced understanding of atopic dermatitis to facilitate treatment and pharmacy benefit discussions.

Discussion: Atopic dermatitis is a heterogeneous disease, and its diagnosis is hampered by a lack of objective diagnostic criteria. The current management guidelines address the distinct clinical phenotypes as a single disease and do not incorporate recent clinical advances, such as the targeting of specific inflammatory processes. The treatment guidelines for atopic dermatitis are complex and challenge healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers. Novel treatments can provide additional therapeutic options for patients with atopic dermatitis.

Conclusions: Treatment options for atopic dermatitis are expanding with the development of novel anti-inflammatory therapies. An increased understanding of these advancements is necessary to optimize care for patients with atopic dermatitis.

Keywords: anti-inflammatory therapies; atopic dermatitis; dermatology; economic impact; financial burden; medication adherence; quality of life; steroid phobia; topical calcineurin inhibitors; topical corticosteroids; treatment guidelines.

Figure 1. Typical Presentation of Atopic Dermatitis at Various Ages

Figure 2. Atopic Dermatitis Yardstick Flow Diagram