[Systemic therapy in the treatment concept of atopic eczema. Reliable treatment methods and experimental...

Our therapeutic approach to atopic eczema consists of a continuous topical dermatological basic therapy in combination with an antiinflammatory therapy in phases of exacerbations. In the treatment of exacerbated atopic eczema, systemic agents are added to achieve effective control more rapidly or to induce remissions in cases refractory to standard therapy. Antihistamines to control the pruritus, as well as antibiotics and acyclovir for antimicrobial superinfections are often used. In many patients exacerbations can be successfully controlled with phototherapy, especially with UVA1 light. The use of systemic immunosuppressants, like glucocorticosteroids, cyclosporine or azathioprine generally can be avoided and is a therapeutic alternative only in few selected cases. In the last years promising new experimental treatments have evolved, which could become therapeutic alternatives for the future.