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Published on: September 27, 2017
From atopic dermatitis to asthma: the atopic march
1Division of Allergy and Immunology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-4399, USA. spergel@email.chop.edu
Epidermal allergen exposure can trigger systemic allergies and atopic diseases. Reduced filaggrin expression is a key factor in developing atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Genetics
Background:
- The atopic march describes the progression of allergic diseases.
- Allergen exposure via the skin may initiate systemic allergies.
- Atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma are linked conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how skin allergen exposure leads to systemic allergy.
- To understand the mechanisms behind the atopic march.
- To identify factors predisposing individuals to atopic diseases.
Main Methods:
- Searched PubMed (1950-present) for epidemiological and genetic evidence.
- Reviewed articles on pathophysiological links between atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma.
Main Results:
- A common sequence of atopic diseases is observed: atopic dermatitis in infancy, followed by allergic rhinitis/asthma.
- Reduced filaggrin expression is a significant predisposing factor for atopy.
- Epidemiological studies support the sequential development of allergic diseases.
Conclusions:
- Mechanisms of epidermal allergen sensitization and atopic march are increasingly understood.
- Further research on filaggrin mutations and epidermal barrier dysfunction is needed.
- Preventive and treatment strategies require more investigation.
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