Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 1, 2026

Resolving Water, Proteins, and Lipids from In Vivo Confocal Raman Spectra of Stratum Corneum through a Chemometric Approach
Published on: September 26, 2019
Optimizing outcomes for paediatric atopic dermatitis
1Pediatric and Adolescent Dermatology, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, U.S.A; School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA, U.S.A.
Insights
Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects nearly 20% of children, characterized by skin barrier dysfunction and infections. Improved understanding guides treatment, but more research is needed on optimal outcome measures for clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric dermatology
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition in young children, affecting up to 20% in industrialized nations.
- Recent research highlights genetically determined skin barrier dysfunction and microbial infections as key factors in AD exacerbations.
- Current management relies on topical anti-inflammatories and emollients, requiring parental education on application and safety concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children.
- To discuss the role of skin barrier dysfunction and microbial infections in AD pathogenesis.
- To identify optimal outcome measures for future clinical trials in pediatric AD.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent advances in understanding AD etiology and pathogenesis.
- Analysis of current therapeutic approaches for pediatric AD.
- Discussion on the importance of outcome measures in clinical trials.
Main Results:
- Genetically determined skin barrier defects and microbial infections significantly influence AD.
- Topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and emollients are standard treatments.
- Parental education and reassurance regarding treatment are crucial.
Conclusions:
- Further research is essential to define the best clinical outcome measures for pediatric AD trials.
- Improving the long-term control of AD flares and quality of life remains a key objective.
- Enhanced understanding of AD pathogenesis informs treatment strategies for young patients.
Abstract:
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.
Related Concept Videos
Acne Infection
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism
Drug Dosing: Infants and Children
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Distribution

