Combination therapy and new directions for managing atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a common skin disease with a complex immunopathology that has a significant impact on the quality of life of patients and their families. Although topical corticosteroids have been the cornerstone of therapy, safety concerns, especially in children, with potent preparations or with chronic use have prompted treatment with various adjunctive therapies. Recently, topical calcineurin inhibitors, including tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, have been shown effective as monotherapy for this chronic relapsing disease.