Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Infections in Atopic Dermatitis

AbstractPurpose of ReviewAtopic dermatitis (AD) is a common and chronic inflammatory skin disease. The purpose of this review article is to assess recent changes in the understanding of pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of infections in AD.Recent FindingsRecent epidemiological studies have confirmed that AD is not only associated with cutaneous infections, but also extra-cutaneous systemic infections. Basic studies have provided evidence that allergic inflammation contribute to increased infections in AD. Clinical use of diluted bleach to prevent infections in AD remains controversial. On the other hand, progress is being made in the study of microbiome in AD. Commensal bacteria may potentially be used to fightStaphylococcus aureus in AD in the future.SummaryAD is a complex disease arising from skin barrier defects that lead to allergen or pathogen invasion and dysfunctional immune responses that promote inflammation. This inflammatory cycle also alters the skin microbiome so that pathogenic organisms, such asS. aureus, are more likely to colonize the skin. The skin barrier defects, immune dysregulation, and alteration in the skin microbiome lead to an increased risk for secondary bacterial and viral infections. More targeted therapies and skin probiotics may address inflammation andS. aureus in the prevention of infections in AD.
Source: Current Dermatology Reports - Category: Dermatology Source Type: research