A new study published in Current Opinion in Pediatrics described new and emerging therapies for pediatric atopic dermatitis (AD).

The findings from recent investigations have underscored the importance of type 2 immunity and interrelationships among the skin immune system, epidermal barrier and microbiome in the pathogenesis of AD, which holds true even for infants and children. These discoveries have led to more targeted therapy. Crisaborole ointment – a topical phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor, and dupilumab – a subcutaneously injected interleukin (IL)-4 receptor inhibitor, are now Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved. Meanwhile, topical agents under investigation for use in the pediatric population include Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, PDE4 inhibitors, an aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist, an antimicrobial peptide and commensal skin bacteria. Furthermore, emerging systemic agents for pediatric AD include biologics targeting IL-13, the IL-31 receptor, and the IL-5 receptor, as well as oral JAK inhibitors.

In inference, it was stated that AD is a heterogeneous disease and having choices of therapies with different mechanisms of action will allow a broader group of children and adolescents to achieve disease control.

Source: Current Opinion in Pediatrics. 2021 Aug 1;33(4):392-401. doi: 10.1097/MOP.0000000000001027.