Treating Adult Eczema Improves Quality of Life

Treating adults with atopic dermatitis can improve their quality of life, according to Jonathan I. Silverberg, MD, PhD, MPH, FAAD, speaking at the American Academy of Dermatology Summer Meeting.

Information about adult atopic dermatitis and appropriate treatment options was presented at the 2017 AAD Summer Meeting, which is taking place in New York, NY, from July 27-30, 2017.
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Current estimates suggest that atopic dermatitis affects half as many adults as it does children. However, overall atopic dermatitis has recently increased, possibly indicating a rising prevalence of the condition among adults.

The researcher noted that atopic dermatitis can interfere with daily tasks, physical activities, work attendance and performance, sleep, and social situations, and can also contribute to mental health disorders like anxiety and depression.

Current treatment options for atopic dermatitis include moisturizers, topical steroids, phototherapy, and systemic medications. Additionally, the US Food and Drug Administration has recently approved an anti-inflammatory topical medication for mild to moderate disease and an injectable systemic drug for moderate to severe disease.

“Fortunately for patients, [atopic dermatitis] treatment can help alleviate the negative effects of this disease and improve their physical and mental well-being,” the researcher said.

—Christina Vogt

Reference:

Atopic dermatitis affects all ages [press release]. New York, NY. American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/adult-atopic-dermatitis. Accessed on July 27, 2017.