Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing dermatitis featuring dry and pruritic skin in individuals having a personal or family history of atopy. Twenty percent of children and 1% to 3% of adults are affected globally by AD, leading to marked economic burden and morbidity. 

Recent guidelines based on evidence-based publications and expert opinions are aimed to assist adult and pediatric physicians caring for patients with AD. 

Like other diseases, several diagnosis criteria have been suggested for AD; however, the classical Hanifin and Rajka criterion with no pathognomonic laboratory biomarkers is still globally accepted and popular for diagnosing AD. The management of AD must be individualized to provide appropriate care for each patient. Basic therapy includes avoiding specific/unspecific provoking factors and hydrating skin. Disease flare can be controlled with topical anti-inflammatory treatments like glucocorticoids and calcineurin inhibitors, while proactive therapy renders long-term control. 

A new topical phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor called Crisaborole can be given in a BD dose in AD patients as young as 3 months old. Patients with moderate-to-severe AD, showing resistance to other systemic treatments may be given dupilumab.

Source: Kulthanan K, Tuchinda P, Nitiyarom R, et al. Clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of atopic dermatitis. Asian Pac J Allergy Immunol. 2021;39(3):145-55.