Three times weekly tacrolimus ointment reduces relapse in stabilized atopic dermatitis: a new paradigm for use

Efficacy and Safety of Proactive Therapy with 2% Crisaborole Ointment in Children with Mild-to-Moderate Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of crisaborole for proactive treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) is not well established.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of a proactive treatment strategy with 2% crisaborole ointment for managing mild-to-moderate AD in children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this 16-week randomized-controlled trial, children aged 2-17 years with mild-to-moderate AD were enrolled. All participants received treatment with 0.1% mometasone furoate cream for 2 weeks. Those with an IGA score of ≤ 1 were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the proactive treatment group, which received crisaborole combined with emollient twice daily, or the reactive treatment group, which received emollients alone, and in the event of disease relapse, both groups received 0.1% mometasone furoate cream as rescue treatment.

RESULTS

Of the 153 patients screened, 142 were randomized; 73 to the proactive treatment group and 69 to the reactive treatment group. At the end of the 16-week trial, the proactive treatment group had a relapse rate of 43.84%, significantly lower than the 71.01% relapse rate in the reactive group (P = 0.001). Additionally, the proactive treatment group demonstrated a significant reduction in the need for mometasone furoate prescriptions at weeks 4, 8, 12, and 16 (P < 0.05). Improvements were also observed in IGA, EASI, PP-NRS, and POEM scores at 12 weeks (P < 0.05). No significant differences in adverse events were found between the groups (χ2 = 2.237, P = 0.135).

CONCLUSIONS

Proactive treatment with crisaborole ointment for children older than 2 years with mild-to-moderate AD effectively reduces flare-ups and reliance on topical corticosteroids, demonstrating good tolerability and safety.

CHINESE CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY

ChiCTR2100054340 (Date of Trial Registration: 14 December 2021).

Long-Term Safety and Efficacy with Roflumilast Cream 0.15% in Patients Aged ≥6 Years with Atopic Dermatitis: A Phase 3 Open-Label Extension Trial

Background: Safety and efficacy of roflumilast cream 0.15% for atopic dermatitis (AD) were demonstrated in two 4-week phase 3 trials. Objective: Evaluate long-term safety, tolerability, and efficacy of roflumilast cream 0.15% in AD. Methods: In this open-label extension (OLE) trial (INTEGUMENT-OLE; NCT04804605), patients aged ≥6 years who completed one of the 4-week phase 3 trials applied roflumilast for up to 52 weeks. After 4 weeks of once-daily application, patients who achieved Validated Investigator Global Assessment for AD (vIGA-AD) of clear (0) switched to twice-weekly (BIW) application to normal-appearing flare-prone areas (proactive treatment). Results: Among 657 patients treated, 36.7% reported adverse events, including 4.7% that were treatment related. Application site pain and stinging/burning that caused definite discomfort at any visit were reported for 0.5% and 0.4%-2.1% of patients, respectively. Patients who achieved vIGA-AD 0 and switched to proactive BIW application maintained vIGA-AD 0/1 (almost clear) for a median of 281 days (Kaplan-Meier estimate). Conclusion: Roflumilast cream 0.15% was well tolerated for up to 56 weeks. BIW application to normal-appearing flare-prone sites maintained improvement in AD signs and symptoms, showing that proactive treatment represents an alternative to the current standard practice of reactive treatment.

Managing Childhood and Adolescent Atopic Dermatitis in Primary Care: A US Expert Group Consensus

Objective

This expert-led consensus aims to provide primary care providers (PCPs) with recommendations for the care of atopic dermatitis (AD) in patients aged <18 years. The first point of contact for diagnosis and management of AD is often a PCP, and appropriate, coordinated care between PCPs and AD specialists is essential to optimizing care.

Study design

A systematic literature review was conducted followed by expert-led development of 25 consensus management recommendations relevant to 4 key themes in AD management: defining control, current and emerging treatments, referral care pathways, and patient-caregiver experience. Consensus was achieved using a modified Delphi process. For each statement, consensus for inclusion was considered achieved if ≥75% of the experts voted within the 7-9 range on a 9-point scale.

Results

Consensus was reached on 24 of 25 statements. Nine statements reached the score of 7-9 by 100% of the experts. Of these, 4 were pertinent to topical therapy for the management of childhood and adolescent AD in primary care: the need for anti-inflammatory medication to achieve clear or almost clear skin; the need to tailor decisions about therapy to the individual patient or family; the importance of coordinated management between PCPs and specialists as part of effective treatment approaches; and the importance of patient and/or caregiver engagement in shared decision-making.

Conclusions

It is hoped that these recommendations will guide the management of pediatric AD in primary care settings, facilitate coordinated care between PCPs and AD specialists, and improve outcomes for patients and their families.

Topical Treatments in Atopic Dermatitis: An Expansive Review

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin condition found worldwide. It impacts patient quality of life (QoL) and is thought to arise as an inflammatory response to epidermal barrier dysfunction and hypersensitivity. AD can lead to large out-of-pocket costs and increased healthcare expenses over a lifetime. An analysis of all randomized control trials conducted since 1990 on topical therapies for AD were reviewed, including 207 trials in the final analysis. It was found that an average of 226 patients were enrolled over 2.43 arms. Common topical treatments included corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, JAK inhibitors, and phosphodiesterase inhibitors. The most utilized tools to identify treatment efficacy were the EASI, IGA, SCORAD, and PGA. There was a paucity of data on trials that evaluated efficacy, QoL, and cost of treatment simultaneously. This review highlights the need for comprehensive trials that evaluate multiple aspects of treatment, including financial cost and QoL impact, to ensure each patient has the best treatment modality for the management of their AD.

Cancer risk with topical calcineurin inhibitors, pimecrolimus and tacrolimus, for atopic dermatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis is a prevalent condition in children and can be effectively managed with medications such as topical calcineurin inhibitors (pimecrolimus or tacrolimus). A key unresolved safety concern is whether use of topical calcineurin inhibitors is associated with cancer. We systematically reviewed the risk of cancer in patients with atopic dermatitis exposed to topical calcineurin inhibitors.

METHODS

As part of the 2022 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters atopic dermatitis guidelines, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature database, the Índice Bibliográfico Espanhol de Ciências da Saúde database, the Global Resource of Eczema Trials database, WHO's International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, the US Food and Drug Administration database, the European Medicines Agency database, company registers, and relevant citations from inception to June 6, 2022. We included randomised controlled trials and comparative and non-comparative non-randomised studies in any language addressing cancer risk in patients with atopic dermatitis using topical calcineurin inhibitors. We excluded split-body studies and studies with less than 3 weeks of follow-up. Paired reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias in duplicate. We used Bayesian models to estimate the probability for cancer due to topical calcineurin inhibitor exposure and the GRADE approach to determine the certainty of the evidence. Patients, advocacy groups, and care providers set a priori thresholds of important effects. This study is registered with Open Science Framework, https://osf.io/v4bfc.

FINDINGS

We identified and analysed 110 unique studies (52 randomised controlled trials and 69 non-randomised studies [11 were non-randomised study extensions of randomised controlled trials]) including 3·4 million patients followed up for a mean of 11 months (range 0·7-120). The absolute risk of any cancer with topical calcineurin inhibitor exposure was not different from controls (absolute risk 4·70 per 1000 with topical calcineurin inhibitors vs 4·56 per 1000 without; odds ratio 1·03 [95% credible interval 0·94-1·11]; moderate certainty). For all age groups and using data from observational studies and randomised controlled trials, the use of pimecrolimus (OR 1·05 [95% credible interval 0·94-1·15]) or tacrolimus (0·99 [0·89-1·09]) is likely to have had little to no association with cancer compared with no topical calcineurin inhibitor exposure. For pimecrolimus versus tacrolimus, the finding was similar (0·95 [95% credible interval 0·83-1·07]). Findings were similar in infants, children, and adults, and robust to trial sequential, subgroup, and sensitivity analyses.

INTERPRETATION

Among individuals with atopic dermatitis, moderate-certainty evidence shows that topical calcineurin inhibitors do not increase the risk of cancer. These findings support the safe use of topical calcineurin inhibitors in the optimal treatment of patients with atopic dermatitis.

FUNDING

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology via the Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters.

Optimizing topical management of atopic dermatitis

OBJECTIVE

Provide a review of atopic dermatitis management, focusing on optimizing topical therapy, creating a stepwise approach for treatment plans, and providing guidance on when to start systemic therapy.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed search of articles in the English language regarding atopic dermatitis in all ages.

STUDY SELECTION

Articles on the subject matter were selected and reviewed.

RESULTS

Topical corticosteroids are the first-line treatment for managing atopic dermatitis. Topical nonsteroidal agents, calcineurin inhibitors, crisaborole, and recently, ruxolitinib, which cause no cutaneous atrophy, are options for reducing the use of topical corticosteroids, including on sensitive sites. Emerging topical agents are in clinical trials. Proactive management, with continued application 2 to 3 times weekly of a midpotency topical corticosteroid or tacrolimus, may maintain control for clear (or almost clear) localized sites of dermatitis that rapidly recur when topical anti-inflammatory medication is stopped. If topical therapy alone cannot control disease and quality of life is impacted, reevaluation to confirm the diagnosis, manage comorbid conditions, address compliance and patient-specific concerns, and optimize topical therapy must be undertaken before deciding to advance to systemic medication. Dupilumab, an interleukin-4 receptor inhibitor, has become first-line systemic therapy given its efficacy and safety, allowing long-term treatment without laboratory monitoring. Other biologics and Janus kinase inhibitors are emerging as alternatives that could eliminate the need for immunosuppressants with their higher risks.

CONCLUSION

Several options are now available for topical treatment. A stepwise approach is needed to consider alternative therapies and diagnoses before advancing to systemic treatment, but the safety of newer immunomodulators will lower the threshold for more aggressive intervention.

Safety of tacrolimus 0.03% and 0.1% ointments in young children with atopic dermatitis - a 36-month follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Topical tacrolimus is used off-label in young children, but data remains limited regarding children under 2 years of age and long-term treatment.

OBJECTIVES

To compare safety differences between tacrolimus 0.03% and 0.1% ointments with mild and moderate potency topical corticosteroids in young children with atopic dermatitis.

METHODS

We conducted a 36-month follow-up study with 152 young children from one to three years of age with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Children were followed prospectively and data concerning infections, disease severity, growth parameters, vaccination responses, and other relevant laboratory tests were gathered.

RESULTS

There were no differences between the treatment groups in skin-related infections (p = 0.198), other infections (p = 0.498), growth parameters height (p = 0.601) and weight (p = 0.812), EASI scores (p = 0.187), vaccination responses (p = 0.620), serum cortisone levels (p = 0.228) and serum levels of IL-4, IL-10, IL-12, IL-31 and IFN gamma. EASI decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.0001). In the tacrolimus group, nine patients (11.68%) had detectable tacrolimus blood concentrations at the 1-week visit. We observed no malignancies or severe infections during the study. Blood eosinophil counts were similar in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Topical tacrolimus (0.03% and 0.1%) and topical corticosteroids (mild and moderate potency) are safe to use in young children with moderate-to severe-atopic dermatitis and have comparable efficacy and safety profiles.

Practical Recommendations for the Topical Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis in South and East Asia

Introduction

There is some evidence to suggest that the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) in Asia is rising. We have therefore developed an algorithm for the topical treatment of AD throughout South and East Asia for use by primary care physicians, pediatricians and dermatologists.

Methods

Nine AD experts from South and East Asia and one from Europe developed the algorithm based upon treatment guidelines, relevant literature and local treatment practices. The algorithm outlines current best practice for the use of emollients, topical corticosteroids (TCS) and topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCI), with the intention of simplifying the treatment regimen of mild-to-moderate AD in South and East Asia.

Results

Patients with AD should bathe and cleanse affected skin to remove crusts and scales daily. Emollients should also be applied daily as a maintenance treatment. When selecting appropriate topical anti-inflammatory treatment for AD flares, several factors should be taken into consideration, including the patient’s age, attitude to treatment options and site of AD lesions. Given the concerns regarding the risk of skin atrophy with use of TCS, a TCI should be used to treat AD lesions in sensitive skin areas: pimecrolimus is recommended for mild-to-moderate AD in these locations, while tacrolimus should be considered for moderate and severe cases. Either pimecrolimus or tacrolimus is recommended for flares in other, non-sensitive body locations. A proactive or intermittent maintenance treatment strategy involving regular emollient use and twice-weekly application of a TCI to previously affected areas is encouraged to reduce the risk of flares.

Conclusions

The algorithm proposed here is intended to simplify the topical treatment of mild-to-moderate AD in daily practice in South and East Asian countries.

Paediatric atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) in South Africa: A practical algorithm for the management of mild-to-moderate disease in daily clinical practice

Background

Atopic eczema (AE) is a chronic, highly pruritic, inflammatory skin condition with increasing prevalence worldwide. Atopic eczema mostly affects children, impairing quality of life with poor disease control leading to progression of other atopic disorders. As most patients in South Africa have no access to specialist healthcare, a practical approach is needed for the management of mild-to-moderate AE in paediatric patients for daily clinical practice.

Methods

A panel of experts in AE convened to develop a practical algorithm for the management of AE for children and adolescents in South Africa.

Results

Regular moisturising with an oil-based emollient remains the mainstay of AE treatment. Severe AE flares should be managed with topical corticosteroids (TCSs). For mild-to-moderate AE flares in sensitive skin areas, a topical calcineurin inhibitor (TCI) should be applied twice daily from the first signs of AE until complete resolution. Topical corticosteroids may be used when TCIs are unavailable. In non-sensitive skin areas, TCSs should be used for mild-to-moderate AE, but TCIs twice daily may be considered. Proactive maintenance treatment with low-dose TCI or TCS 2–3 times weekly and the liberal use of emollients is recommended for patients with recurrent flares.

Conclusions

This algorithm aims to simplify treatment of paediatric AE, optimising clinical outcomes and reducing disease burden. This approach excludes treatment of patients with severe AE, who should be referred to specialist care. Emphasis has been given to the importance of general skincare, patient education and the topical anti-inflammatory medications available in South Africa (TCSs and TCIs).

Current Perspectives on the Management of Infantile Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common disease of childhood, and infantile AD may manifest from birth to 2 years. Guidelines for the management of infantile AD are lacking, and our aim is to provide a comprehensive review of best practices and possible interventions. We will focus on topical therapy, since the use of systemic immunomodulating agents in infantile AD is rarely advised. Topical agents include emollients, topical corticosteroids (TCS), topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), and phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE-4) inhibitors. We will also provide a brief overview of promising emerging therapies currently under investigation in the pediatric population.

Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma: current knowledge and future perspectives

Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) is a rare vascular neoplasm with high morbidity and mortality. The initiating mechanism during the pathogenesis of KHE has yet to be discovered. The main pathological features of KHE are abnormal angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. KHEs are clinically heterogeneous and may develop into a life-threatening thrombocytopenia and consumptive coagulopathy, known as the Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon (KMP). The heterogeneity and the highly frequent occurrence of disease-related comorbidities make the management of KHE challenging. Currently, there are no medications approved by the FDA for the treatment of KHE. Multiple treatment regimens have been used with varying success, and new clinical trials are in progress. In severe patients, multiple agents with variable adjuvant therapies are given in sequence or in combination. Recent studies have demonstrated a satisfactory efficacy of sirolimus, an inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin, in the treatment of KHE. Novel targeted treatments based on a better understanding of the pathogenesis of KHE are needed to maximize patient outcomes and quality of life. This review summarizes the epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis and treatments of KHE. Recent new concepts and future perspectives for KHE will also be discussed.

Tolerability of Topical Treatments for Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease that is accompanied by increased sensitivity to itch-provoking and pain-provoking stimuli. Patients with AD experience skin pain before initiation of therapy and have also reported painful application site reactions in clinical trials of emollients and prescription topical therapies, including topical corticosteroids (TCSs), topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), and a topical phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. To compare the sensory tolerability of prescription topical therapies for AD, a comprehensive literature search and analysis of published clinical trials was conducted. Sensory tolerability issues such as application site pain, burning, stinging, and pruritus were often among the most common adverse events or treatment-related adverse events in clinical trials for prescription topical therapies. Tolerability issues occurred at highest rates in trials of TCIs, followed by trials of the PDE4 inhibitor crisaborole and TCSs, although direct comparisons are not possible because of differences in study design. Tolerability issues in these clinical trials were generally mild to moderate and transient. This article also reviews published strategies for managing sensory tolerability issues in AD patients during treatment with topical therapies.Funding: Pfizer Inc., New York, NY.

An update on the topical and oral therapy options for treating pediatric atopic dermatitis

INTRODUCTION

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common childhood skin disorders. Multiple mechanisms contribute to the pathology of AD and treatment approaches are directed at these processes.

AREAS COVERED

The purpose of this review is to discuss the chemical treatment options for pediatric atopic dermatitis, including immunomodulators and small molecule inhibitors. A systematic literature search was conducted, and publications were reviewed for applicable treatment guidelines.

EXPERT OPINION

Topical therapy is first-line for pediatric atopic dermatitis. Providers should work closely with patients and caregivers to promote the success of topical treatments. In disease refractory to topical treatments, systemic agents may be considered. Clinical trials are ongoing for the use of biologics in the treatment of pediatric AD. When choosing the most appropriate treatment, physicians should consider the drug efficacy, potential adverse effects, patient adherence, and quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Additional studies are required to determine the safest and most effective doses for systemic therapy in childhood AD.

A practical algorithm for topical treatment of atopic dermatitis in the Middle East emphasizing the importance of sensitive skin areas

Background There is a need for safe, effective treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) in the Middle East. Objective To propose a practical algorithm for the treatment of AD throughout the Middle East. Methods An international panel of six experts from the Middle East and one from Europe developed the algorithm. The practical treatment guide was based on a review of published guidelines on AD, an evaluation of relevant literature published up to August 2016 and local treatment practices. Results Patients with an acute mild-to-moderate disease flare on sensitive body areas should apply the topical calcineurin inhibitor (TCI), pimecrolimus 1% cream twice daily until clearance. For other body locations, a TCI, either pimecrolimus 1% cream, tacrolimus 0.03% ointment in children or 0.1% ointment in adults, should be applied twice daily until clearance. Emollients should be used as needed. Patients experiencing acute severe disease flares should apply a topical corticosteroid (TCS) according to their label for a few days to reduce inflammation. After clinical improvement, pimecrolimus for sensitive skin areas or TCIs for other body locations should be used until there is a complete resolution of lesions. Conclusions These recommendations are expected to optimize AD management in patients across the Middle East.

A Systematic Scoping Literature Review of Publications Supporting Treatment Guidelines for Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis in Contrast to Clinical Practice Patterns

INTRODUCTION

Treatment guidelines endorse a variety of strategies for atopic dermatitis (AD) which may vary from published data and clinical practice patterns. The objective of this review was to quantify the volume of available medical literature supporting pediatric AD treatments and compare these patterns to those recommended by published guidelines and/or clinical practice patterns.

METHODS

Searches of Embase (2005-2016) and abstracts from selected meetings (2014-2016) related to AD treatment in patients younger than 17 years of age yielded references that were assessed by study design, primary treatment, age groups, and AD severity.

RESULTS

Published literature partially supports clinical guidelines, with emollients and topical medications being the most investigated. There were disproportionately more publications for topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCI) compared with topical corticosteroids (TCS); however, the search interval may have biased the results toward treatments approved near the beginning of the time frame. In contrast, publications documenting clinical practice patterns reflect greater use of emollients and TCS (over TCI), as well as systemic corticosteroids. Data is relatively limited for long-term and combination treatment, treatment of severe AD, and patients younger than 2 years of age, and completely lacking for systemic corticosteroids.

CONCLUSION

This scoping review demonstrates that available medical literature largely supports published guidelines for topical therapy; however, clinical practice patterns are less aligned. There is a lack of data for older, more frequently used generic treatments, including oral antihistamines, oral antibiotics, and systemic corticosteroids. Overall, literature is lacking for long-term treatment, treatment for patients younger than 2 years of age, and for systemic treatment for severe disease.

FUNDING

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of adult and pediatric atopic dermatitis: Review on safety and benefits

Atopic dermatitis (AD) requires long-term management, mainly with topical anti-inflammatory agents. Topical corticosteroids (TCS) and tacrolimus ointment (TAC-O) are recommended as first-line treatments for AD. However, the long-term use of TCS is limited by cutaneous adverse events such as skin atrophy. For TAC-O, Japanese and US labelings were updated in 2003 and 2006, respectively, to include a boxed warning about a theoretical risk of skin cancer and lymphoma in patients treated with topical calcineurin inhibitors. However, TAC-O has been used worldwide for longer than 15 years to treat adult and pediatric patients with AD. Available data suggest that TAC-O is effective and well tolerated, and can improve quality of life. TAC-O has successfully been used in the proactive management of AD consisting of long-term intermittent use to prevent, delay or reduce the occurrence of AD flares. Systemic drug absorption after TAC-O application is negligible and unlikely to result in systemic immunosuppression. There is currently no strong evidence of an increased rate of malignancy in treated patients, and observational data from postmarketing surveillance studies have shown no safety concerns. In the absence of robust evidence, the warning about the carcinogenic potential in the Japanese labeling for TAC-O does not appear justified and should be reconsidered. This mitigation of description would allow adult and pediatric patients with AD to receive the effective treatment more appropriately.

Atopic dermatitis: a review of topical nonsteroid therapy

Background

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects up to 20% of children and 3% of adults globally. Although topical corticosteroids are considered to be the first-line agents, they can be associated with cutaneous and systemic adverse effects. Since the early 2000s, two new classes of nonsteroid topical therapies, topical calcineurin inhibitors and phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors, have been introduced and provide a safe treatment alternative.

Method

We performed a search and review of clinical trials that examined the safety and efficacy of topical calcineurin inhibitors and PDE4 inhibitors. The search was conducted using the PubMed database as well as preselected keywords and filters. This review focuses on the safety and efficacy of each therapy.

Results

Sixty-nine clinical trials identified in this study have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of topical calcineurin and a single novel PDE4 inhibitor in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Topical calcineurin inhibitors have been shown to be effective in both achieving lesion clearance as well as reducing relapse when used long-term and proactively. Similarly, in clinical trials the PDE4 inhibitor showed success in lesion clearance and symptom management. All three therapies (pimecrolimus, tacrolimus, crisaborole) are associated with low systemic absorption. No clinical trials to date have shown an increased risk of systemic adverse events or malignancy such as lymphoma. The most commonly reported treatment-related adverse event across all three therapies was application-site discomfort, pain or pruritus. It is important to note that long-term studies are not yet available for the novel PDE4 inhibitor.

Discussion

Topical calcineurin inhibitors provide a safe and effective alternative to topical corticosteroid use in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Although the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) black box warning for topical calcineurin inhibitors remains, studies have not shown an increased risk of malignancy. These warnings have caused a decline in use in favor of topical steroids. A novel PDE4 inhibitor has shown efficacy and safety in studies up to one year. Further long-term safety data is needed.

When does atopic dermatitis warrant systemic therapy? Recommendations from an expert panel of the International Eczema Council

BACKGROUND

Although most patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) are effectively managed with topical medication, a significant minority require systemic therapy. Guidelines for decision making about advancement to systemic therapy are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To guide those considering use of systemic therapy in AD and provide a framework for evaluation before making this therapeutic decision with the patient.

METHODS

A subgroup of the International Eczema Council determined aspects to consider before prescribing systemic therapy. Topics were assigned to expert reviewers who performed a topic-specific literature review, referred to guidelines when available, and provided interpretation and expert opinion.

RESULTS

We recommend a systematic and holistic approach to assess patients with severe signs and symptoms of AD and impact on quality of life before systemic therapy. Steps taken before commencing systemic therapy include considering alternate or concomitant diagnoses, avoiding trigger factors, optimizing topical therapy, ensuring adequate patient/caregiver education, treating coexistent infection, assessing the impact on quality of life, and considering phototherapy.

LIMITATIONS

Our work is a consensus statement, not a systematic review.

CONCLUSION

The decision to start systemic medication should include assessment of severity and quality of life while considering the individual's general health status, psychologic needs, and personal attitudes toward systemic therapies.

Adjunctive Management of Itch in Atopic Dermatitis

Itch, or pruritus, is a hallmark feature of atopic dermatitis (AD). The impact of AD-related pruritus can range from mildly distressing or distracting to completely disabling. Traditionally, management of itch in AD patients has focused on restoring the altered skin barrier with topical emollients and/or reducing inflammation. A growing emphasis has been placed on directly targeting the neural transmission pathways that mediate itch signaling. Off-label use of neuromodulatory agents has helped reduce this aggravating symptom in atopic patients. This article reviews the current literature on the use of neuromodulatory agents and nonpharmacologic alternative therapies used to treat AD-related pruritus.

Treatment of Eczema: Corticosteroids and Beyond

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that requires a manifold approach to therapy. The goal of therapy is to restore the function of the epidermal barrier and to reduce skin inflammation. This can be achieved with skin moisturization and topical anti-inflammatory agents, such as topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors. Furthermore, proactive therapy with twice weekly use of both topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors in previously affected areas has been found to reduce the time to the next eczematous flare. Adjunctive treatment options include wet wrap therapy, anti-histamines, and vitamin D supplementation. Bacterial colonization, in particular Staphylococcus aureus, can contribute to eczematous flares and overt infection. Use of systemic antibiotics in infected lesions is warranted; however, empiric antibiotics use in uninfected lesions is controversial. Local antiseptic measures (i.e., bleach baths) and topical antimicrobial therapies can be considered in patients with high bacterial colonization. Difficult-to-treat AD is a complex clinical problem that may require re-evaluation of the initial diagnosis of AD, especially if the onset of disease occurs in adulthood. It may also necessitate evaluation for contact, food, and inhaled allergens that may exacerbate the underlying AD. There are a host of systemic therapies that have been successful in patients with difficult-to-treat AD, however, these agents are limited by their side effect profiles. Lastly, with further insight into the pathophysiology of AD, new biological agents have been investigated with promising results.

Review of Atopic Dermatitis and Topical Therapies

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common skin disorders in the developed world, affecting up to 20% of children and 1% to 3% of adults. This review concisely explains the pathophysiology and epidemiology of atopic dermatitis, as well as potential challenges facing its successful treatment. Furthermore, mainstay topical treatment modalities are evaluated, such as emollients, topical corticosteroids, and topical calcineurin inhibitors. The use of topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors in combination is discussed, as studies have indicated encouraging results. The proactive use of topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors is also investigated, in order to bring attention to a new possibility in long-term management of atopic dermatitis. Last, new and upcoming topical medications are described, including Janus kinase inhibitors, phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors, and benvitimod. Although topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors can be very effective in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, it is important that practitioners are aware of mechanistically unique and new treatments for patients for whom more traditional topical therapies have failed. Overall, this review article hopes to serve as a comprehensive overview of currently available topical treatments for atopic dermatitis, while shedding light on new treatments coming in the future.

Topical treatment of atopic dermatitis in children: current challenges and answers

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most prevalent skin disease in the early childhood and is a considerable problem both for patients and members of their families and for the society on the whole. In most cases, AD requires a long-term therapy such as the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. Selective inhibitors of the synthesis and release of proinflammatory cytokines - topical calcineurin inhibitors (Tcis) - are now used to solve this problem, with pimecrolimus being one of them. Pimecrolimus has been thoroughly examined for the past decade in different clinical studies involving a total of over 4,000 infants (below 2 years of age). These studies demonstrated the efficacy and safety of pimecrolimus for AD in children provided it is used in a long-term therapy on an intermittent basis. Unlike topical corticosteroids, the long-term use of pimecrolimus is not associated with any risk of development of systemic immunosuppression, skin atrophy, skin barrier dysfunction or systemic absorption so it is safe even if applied to the most sensitive skin areas. In view of this, the authors make a conclusion that pimecrolimus used in the form of a cream is a safe and efficient drug for the treatment of infants aged over three months suffering from atopic dermatitis.

Experience of using tacrolimus as a part of a complex therapy of atopic dermatitis

This review presents the results of international and Russian clinical studies conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. The main mechanisms of action of TCIs are described. The authors demonstrate the advantages of Tacrolimus belonging to the TCI group. Due to the hydrophilic drug form and pharmacoeconomic index promoting compliance with treatment, it is possible to consider the new drug Tacropic (0.1% and 0.03% Tacrolimus ointments) as the optimum topical drug for the treatment of moderate to severe and severe forms of atopic dermatitis in adults and children.

Systematic review of published trials: long-term safety of topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors in pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis

BACKGROUND

Many clinicians have concerns about the safety of atopic dermatitis (AD) treatments, particularly in children requiring long-term daily maintenance therapy. Topical corticosteroids (TCS) have been widely used for >5 decades. Long-term TCS monotherapy has been associated with adverse cutaneous effects including atrophy, rebound flares, and increased percutaneous absorption with potential for adverse systemic effects. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, available for 1-2 decades, are not associated with atrophy or increased percutaneous absorption after prolonged use and have much lower potential for systemic effects. However, since 2006 TCIs have carried a controversial Boxed Warning based on a theoretical risk of malignancy (eg, skin and lymphoma) that has limited TCI use for standard-of-care maintenance therapy.

METHODS

A comparative systematic search of PubMed was done for long-term (≥12 week) clinical trials of TCS or TCI treatment in patients <12 years with AD. Citations were reviewed for inclusion based on MeSH terms, abstracts, and relevant article text. Studies were excluded if they did not encompass subjects <12 years, or were <12 weeks' duration, retrospective, meta-analyses, or limited to anecdotal case reports.

RESULTS

Of 27 trials meeting criteria, 21 included 5825 pediatric patients treated with TCIs, and 6 included 1999 patients treated with TCS. TCS studies were limited to low- to mid-potency products, and all but one study lacked a vehicle control. Eight TCI studies were vehicle-controlled, and safety data were well reported, with ≤5 % of patients reporting discontinuation due to adverse effects (DAEs). Cutaneous and systemic adverse events (AEs) were similar in TCI and vehicle groups, with no reports of lymphoma. Safety data in TCS trials were less well reported. DAE incidence was addressed in just 2 trials, and systemic and cutaneous AEs were mostly unreported.

CONCLUSIONS

Data supporting long-term use of TCIs are robust, documenting safety and efficacy, while data supporting long-term TCS use are limited to low- to mid-potency products. Our review identifies a lack of information on the safety of commonly prescribed, long-term monotherapy with mid- to high-potency TCS in pediatric AD, and supports standard-of-care maintenance therapy with TCIs and intermittent use of low- to mid-potency TCS for flares.

A Comprehensive Review of the Treatment of Atopic Eczema

Atopic eczema (AE) is a chronic, inflammatory skin disorder which usually develops in early childhood. In spite of intensive investigations, the causes of AE remain unclear, but are likely to be multifactorial in nature. Environmental factors or genetic-environmental interactions seem to play a key role in disease progression. Among various measures of AE managment, cutaneous hydration, which improves barrier function and relieve itchiness, may be helpful to reduce the need for topical steroid use and therefore should be used as a basic treatment. Avoiding aggravating factors is also a basic treatment of AE. Standard medical treatment with a pharmacologic approach may be necessary if basic treatment fails to control symptoms satisfactorily. Recently, more attention is given to a proactive therapeutic by regular intermittent application of low potency steroids or topical calcineurin inhibitors to prevent new flares. Furthermore, various targeted biologics are being introduced for AE control and are proposed as promising therapies. This paper provides a summary of the recent literature on the manangement of AE and a treatment guideline.

Atopic dermatitis: Kids are not just little people

The approach to children and adults with atopic dermatitis is similar. In both age groups, failure to respond to conventional therapy should prompt evaluation for complicating factors such as secondary infection and secondary ACD. Immunologic, metabolic, genetic, and nutritional disorders should be considered in the differential diagnosis of refractory pediatric atopic dermatitis. Cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL), cutaneous drug reactions, other spongiotic dermatoses, psoriasis, dermatomycosis, and infestations should be considered in the differential of refractory atopic dermatitis in adults. Systemic therapies prescribed to both children and adults with severe atopic dermatitis include oral corticosteroids, cyclosporine, methotrexate, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil.

Translating Atopic Dermatitis Management Guidelines Into Practice for Primary Care Providers

Atopic dermatitis affects a substantial number of children, many of whom seek initial treatment from their pediatrician or other primary care provider. Approximately two-thirds of these patients have mild disease and can be adequately managed at the primary care level. However, recent treatment guidelines are written primarily for use by specialists and lack certain elements that would make them more useful to primary care providers. This article evaluates these recent treatment guidelines in terms of evaluation criteria, treatment recommendations, usability, accessibility, and applicability to nonspecialists and integrates them with clinical evidence to present a streamlined severity-based treatment model for the management of a majority of atopic dermatitis cases. Because each patient's situation is unique, individualization of treatment plans is critical as is efficient communication and implementation of the plan with patients and caregivers. Specifically, practical suggestions for individualizing, optimizing, implementing, and communicating treatment plans such as choosing a moisturizer formulation, avoiding common triggers, educating patients/caregivers, providing written treatment plans, and scheduling physician follow-up are provided along with a discussion of available resources for patients/caregivers and providers.

Pimecrolimus in atopic dermatitis: consensus on safety and the need to allow use in infants

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a distressing dermatological disease, which is highly prevalent during infancy, can persist into later life and requires long-term management with anti-inflammatory compounds. The introduction of the topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, more than 10 yr ago was a major breakthrough for the topical anti-inflammatory treatment of AD. Pimecrolimus 1% is approved for second-line use in children (≥2 yr old) and adults with mild-to-moderate AD. The age restriction was emphasized in a boxed warning added by the FDA in January 2006, which also highlights the lack of long-term safety data and the theoretical risk of skin malignancy and lymphoma. Since then, pimecrolimus has been extensively investigated in short- and long-term studies including over 4000 infants (<2 yr old). These studies showed that pimecrolimus effectively treats AD in infants, with sustained improvement with long-term intermittent use. Unlike topical corticosteroids, long-term TCI use does not carry the risks of skin atrophy, impaired epidermal barrier function or enhanced percutaneous absorption, and so is suitable for AD treatment especially in sensitive skin areas. Most importantly, the studies of pimecrolimus in infants provided no evidence for systemic immunosuppression, and a comprehensive body of evidence from clinical studies, post-marketing surveillance and epidemiological investigations does not support potential safety concerns. In conclusion, the authors consider that the labelling restrictions regarding the use of pimecrolimus in infants are no longer justified and recommend that the validity of the boxed warning for TCIs should be reconsidered.

Atopic dermatitis in children: clinical features, pathophysiology, and treatment

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing, highly pruritic skin condition resulting from disruption of the epithelial barrier and associated immune dysregulation in the skin of genetically predisposed hosts. AD generally develops in early childhood, has a characteristic age-dependent distribution and is commonly associated with elevated IgE, peripheral eosinophilia, and other allergic diseases. Medications such as antihistamines have demonstrated poor efficacy in controlling AD-associated itch. Education of patients regarding the primary underlying defects and provision of a comprehensive skin care plan is essential for disease maintenance and management of flares.

Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis: section 2. Management and treatment of atopic dermatitis with topical therapies

Atopic dermatitis is a common and chronic, pruritic inflammatory skin condition that can affect all age groups. This evidence-based guideline addresses important clinical questions that arise in its management. In this second of 4 sections, treatment of atopic dermatitis with nonpharmacologic interventions and pharmacologic topical therapies are reviewed. Where possible, suggestions on dosing and monitoring are given based on available evidence.

Optimizing outcomes for paediatric atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is considered the most prevalent chronic inflammatory condition in very young children, with a prevalence approaching 20% in some industrialized countries. Recent advances in the understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of AD - particularly in relation to genetically determined skin barrier dysfunction and the role of microbial infections in AD flares - have helped to galvanize thinking on approaches to treatment in young patients. Topical anti-inflammatory medicines (corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors) in addition to emollients are the mainstay of therapy in children, but parents need help to understand how and when to apply them and reassurance to allay their fears about the long-term effects of these treatments. At the same time, more work is required in order to identify which clinical signs, symptoms, long-term control of flares, and quality of life measures are the best outcome domains for AD clinical trials in order to continue to improve control of AD in children.

Management of difficult-to-treat atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a complex disorder caused by the interplay between multiple genetic and environmental factors. Particularly in patients with severe disease, the effect is not just an itchy rash but also the secondary effects on the psychological well-being of the patient and their carers, particularly disturbed sleep. The aim of this review is to provide health care professionals with a holistic approach to the management of difficult-to-treat atopic dermatitis, defined as atopic dermatitis seemingly unresponsive to simple moisturizers and mild potency (classes VI and VII) topical corticosteroids. The critical importance of education and advice is emphasized, as is the seminal role of secondary bacterial infection and polyclonal T-cell activation in causing acute flares in patients with severe, generalized disease. In atypical cases or those that do not respond to treatment, alternative diagnoses should be considered.

Long term treatment concepts and proactive therapy for atopic eczema

Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a frequent, highly pruritic, chronic skin disease, which is typically running in flares. The traditional treatment mainly consists of the reactive application of topical anti-inflammatory agents such as topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors. The short term benefit of this approach is well known, but long term remission between flares is difficult to achieve. Therefore, innovative long-term treatment strategies targeting flare prevention and skin barrier stabilization are needed. We and others have shown that normal looking, non-lesional skin of atopic dermatitis patients is immunobiologially not normal but characterized by an invisible inflammation and barrier defect. This has led to the novel concept of proactive therapy, which is defined as long-term, low-dose intermittent application of anti-inflammatory therapy to the previously affected skin, together with an ongoing emollient treatment of unaffected skin. This review article describes the most important long-term treatment options for atopic dermatitis, which includes emollient therapy, the novel concept of proactive treatment, the different ultraviolet light modalities and a selection of systemic immunosuppressive drugs and biologics. Current trial data, licensed indications, off-label use and relevant side effects of the different treatment modalities are summarized.

Therapeutic implications of a barrier-based pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis

Excessive Th2 cell signaling and IgE production play key roles in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD). Yet, recent information suggests that the inflammation in AD instead is initiated by inherited insults to the barrier, including a strong association between mutations in FILAGGRIN and SPINK5 in Netherton syndrome, the latter of which provides an important clue that AD is provoked by excess serine protease activity. But acquired stressors to the barrier may also be required to initiate inflammation in AD, and in addition, microbial colonization by Staphylococcus aureus both amplifies inflammation, but also further stresses the barrier in AD. Therapeutic implications of these insights are as follows: While current therapy has been largely directed toward ameliorating Th2-mediated inflammation and/or pruritus, these therapies are fraught with short-term and potential long-term risks. In contrast, "barrier repair" therapy, with a ceramide-dominant triple-lipid mixture of stratum corneum lipids, is more logical, of proven efficacy, and it provides a far-improved safety profile.

Clinical efficacy, safety and tolerance of 0.1% Tacrolimus ointment in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in the moderate and severe forms

Goal: to evaluate the clinical efficacy of 0.1% Protopic ointment in the treatment of atopic dermatitis as a part of a complex therapy. Materials and methods. The study involved a group of 30 patients of both sexes who were diagnosed with atopic dermatitis in the moderate and severe forms at the age of 17—40, who received the 0.1% Tacrolimus ointment (which was applied on the affection foci) as a part of a complex therapy twice a day. The efficacy and safety of this therapy were evaluated based on the SCORAD, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), indices of personal and situational anxiety, and subjective patient’s feelings. Results. The application of the Protopic ointment resulted in a high total percentage of clinical recovery and significant improvement (86.2%) as well as fast (on Day 7) achievement of a positive effect. Conclusion. The Protopic ointment is characterized by high efficacy and good tolerance when used for the treatment of moderate to severe forms of atopic dermatitis as a part of the complex therapy.

Topical therapies for pruritus

Itch, or pruritus, is the predominant symptom associated with acute and chronic cutaneous disease, and in some cases may be debilitating. To date, there is no single universally effective anti-itch treatment. Because the pathophysiology of itch in most cutaneous or systemic disorders remains unclear, antipruritic therapy is often directed against a variety of targets, including the epidermal barrier, immune system, or the nervous system. Topical therapy is the mainstay of dermatologic management of acute or localized itch or in patients with contraindications to systemic therapies. This review will summarize current topical therapies to treat pruritus and discuss potential future therapies.

Calcineurin inhibitors in pediatric atopic dermatitis: a review of current evidence

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic inflammatory dermatosis with a prevalence of 7-21% in school-aged children. Childhood AD has a profound impact on the social, personal, emotional, and financial perspectives of families. For the last half-century, topical corticosteroids of different potencies have been the mainstay of topical therapy. In recent years, two topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, have become available for the treatment of AD. Both tacrolimus and pimecrolimus have been extensively evaluated in the management of pediatric AD. Trials comparing them with placebo, topical corticosteroids, and each other have shown them to be effective and safe for continuous short-term use, and for noncontinuous use for up to 4 years. Long-term safety of TCIs is not known as they have been in clinical use for less than a decade.

Efficacy and tolerability of proactive treatment with topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors for atopic eczema: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Long-term low-level topical anti-inflammatory therapy has been suggested as a new paradigm in the treatment of atopic eczema (AE).

OBJECTIVES

To determine the efficacy and tolerability of topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors for flare prevention in AE.

METHODS

Systematic review of randomized controlled trials reporting efficacy of topical corticosteroids and/or topical calcineurin inhibitors for flare prevention in AE. Identification of relevant articles by systematic electronic searches (Cochrane Library, Medline) supplemented by hand search. Primary efficacy endpoint: proportion of participants experiencing at least one flare during proactive anti-inflammatory treatment. Relative risks (RRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated and pooled by pharmaceutical agent using random-effects meta-analysis. Sensitivity analysis included meta-regression to explore the influence of study-specific covariates.

RESULTS

Nine articles reporting on eight vehicle-controlled trials were included. Three, four and one trial(s) evaluated proactive therapy with topical tacrolimus, fluticasone propionate and methylprednisolone aceponate, respectively. Each agent under study was more efficacious to prevent flares than vehicle. Meta-analysis suggested that topical fluticasone propionate (RR 0·46, 95% CI 0·38-0·55) may be more efficacious to prevent disease flares than topical tacrolimus (RR 0·78, 95% CI 0·60-1·00). Meta-regression indicated robustness of these findings. Proactive anti-inflammatory therapy was generally well tolerated. The trials identified, however, do not allow firm conclusions about long-term safety.

CONCLUSIONS

Vehicle-controlled trials indicate efficacy of proactive treatment with tacrolimus, fluticasone propionate and methylprednisolone aceponate to prevent AE flares. Indirect evidence from vehicle-controlled trials suggests that twice weekly application of the potent topical corticosteroid fluticasone propionate may be more efficacious to prevent AE flares than tacrolimus ointment. Head to head trials should be conducted to confirm these results. Future studies are also needed to evaluate the long-term safety of proactive treatment of AE.

The safety and efficacy of tacrolimus ointment in pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common skin disease in children, and its prevalence is increasing. It is a chronic disorder, characterized by intermittent flares and phases of remission. Treatment regimens often require multiple therapies. These can vary between patients, and in an individual patient, depending on the state of disease. The traditional treatment for AD flares is topical corticosteroids, which are fast acting and effective for relief of symptoms, but may cause adverse effects, including those resulting from systemic absorption, particularly in children. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) are alternative treatments for AD. Tacrolimus ointment, a TCI, is approved for patients aged 2 years and older. Multiple studies have shown that tacrolimus is effective for short-term relief of symptoms in pediatric patients with AD. Long-term trials have demonstrated that the effectiveness of tacrolimus is maintained for up to 4 years in children. Additional studies have revealed that long-term intermittent use of tacrolimus as part of maintenance therapy can prevent AD flares. Tacrolimus has a low potential for systemic accumulation, and analysis of long-term studies indicates that it has a good safety profile. Treatment with tacrolimus, alone or in combination with topical corticosteroids for acute flares, may be a useful option for long-term management of AD in pediatric patients.

Update on the management of chronic eczema: new approaches and emerging treatment options

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common disease with worldwide prevalence, affecting up to 20% of children and 3% of adults. Recent evidence regarding pathogenesis has implicated epidermal barrier defects deriving from filagrin mutations with resulting secondary inflammation. In this report, the authors comprehensively review the literature on atopic dermatitis therapy, including topical and systemic options. Most cases of AD will benefit from emollients to enhance the barrier function of skin. Topical corticosteroids are first-line therapy for most cases of AD. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus ointment, pimecrolimus cream) are considered second line therapy. Several novel barrier-enhancing prescription creams are also available. Moderate to severe cases inadequately controlled with topical therapy may require phototherapy or systemic therapy. The most commonly employed phototherapy modalites are narrow-band UVB, broadband UVB, and UVA1. Traditional systemic therapies include short-term corticosteroids, cyclosporine (considered to be the gold standard), methotrexate, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, and most recently leflunamide. Biologic therapies include recombinant monoclonal antibodies acting on the immunoglobulin E / interleukin-5 pathway (omalizumab, mepolizumab), acting as tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors (infliximab, etanercept, adalimumab), and acting as T-cell (alefacept) and B-cell (rituxumab) inhibitors, as well as interferon γ and intravenous immunoglobulin. Efficacy, safety, and tolerability are reviewed for each medication.