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Modulation of the atopy patch test reaction by topical corticosteroids and tar
E G Langeveld-Wildschut1, H Riedl, T Thepen
1Department of Dermatology/Allergology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|October 14, 2000
Summary
Topical glucocorticosteroids (GCSs) and tar reduce allergic inflammation in atopic eczema (AE) by inhibiting T cell and eosinophil influx. The atopy patch test (APT) effectively evaluates these anti-inflammatory treatment effects.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Standardizing pharmacologic studies in atopic eczema (AE) is challenging due to disease variability.
- Assessing topical treatments for AE requires reliable methods to evaluate inflammatory responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of topical glucocorticosteroids (GCSs) and tar on the atopy patch test (APT) reaction in AE patients.
- To assess both macroscopic and microscopic changes following pretreatment with GCSs and tar.
Main Methods:
- Nonlesional skin of AE patients was pretreated with GCSs, tar, or vehicle for 3 weeks.
- Atopy patch tests (APTs) were conducted, and skin biopsy specimens were collected for immunohistochemical analysis.
Main Results:
- Both GCSs and tar significantly reduced the macroscopic APT reaction.
- GCSs and tar equally inhibited the influx of T cells, eosinophils, and specific inflammatory markers.
- Expression of adhesion molecules like VCAM-1 and E-selectin was reduced by both treatments.
Conclusions:
- Topical GCSs and tar effectively reduce allergic inflammation in AE, though cellular components persist.
- The APT serves as a valuable tool for assessing the efficacy of topical anti-inflammatory treatments in AE.
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