Atopic Dermatitis

Almonds and almond oil are known to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antihepatotoxicity, and immunity-boosting activity.¹ The seed from the deciduous almond tree (Oleum amygdalae), which is native to Iran and parts of the Levant, almonds contain copious amounts of phenols and polyphenols, fatty acids, and vitamin E, all of which are known to exert antioxidant activity.^2-5 These seeds have been found to have a substantial impact on serum lipids.⁴ Emollient and sclerosant characteristics have also been linked to almond oil, which has been found to ameliorate complexion and skin tone.⁵ Significantly, in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that UVB-induced photoaging can be attenuated through the use of almond oil and almond skin extract.² Further, in traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and ancient Greco-Persian medicine, almond oil was used to treat cutaneous conditions, including eczema and psoriasis.¹ The focus of this column is to provide an update on the use of almonds and almond oil for skincare since covering the topic in July 2014.

Antiphotoaging activity

In 2019, Foolad and Vaughn conducted a prospective, investigator-blind, randomized controlled trial to determine the effects of almond consumption on facial sebum production and wrinkles. Participants (28 postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I and II completed the study) consumed 20% of their daily energy intake in almonds or a calorie-matched snack over 16 weeks through the UC Davis Dermatology Clinic. Photographic analysis revealed that the almond group experienced significantly diminished wrinkle severity, compared with the control group. The investigators concluded that daily almond consumption has the potential to decrease wrinkle severity in postmenopausal women and that almonds may confer natural antiaging effects.⁴

In a similar investigation 2 years later, Rybak et al. reported on a prospective, randomized controlled study to ascertain the effects of almond consumption on photoaging in postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I or II who obtained 20% of their daily energy consumption via almonds or a calorie-matched snack for 24 weeks. Results demonstrated significant effects conferred by almond consumption, with average wrinkle severity substantially diminished in the almond group at weeks 16 (by 15%) and 24 (by 16%), compared with baseline. In addition, facial pigment intensity was reduced by 20% in the almond group by week 16 and this was maintained through the end of the study. Further, sebum excretion was higher in the control group. The investigators concluded that the daily consumption of almonds may have the potential to enhance protection against photoaging, particularly in terms of facial wrinkles and pigment intensity, in postmenopausal women.³

Later in 2021, Li et al. conducted a study in 39 healthy Asian women (18-45 years old) with Fitzpatrick skin types II to IV to investigate the effects of almond consumption on UVB resistance. The researchers randomized participants to eat either 1.5 oz of almonds or 1.8 oz of pretzels daily for 12 weeks. Results showed that the minimal erythema dose was higher in the almond group as compared with the control group. No differences were observed in hydration, melanin, roughness, or sebum on facial skin. The authors concluded that daily oral almond intake may improve photoprotection by raising the minimal erythema dose.²

In a 2022 review on the cutaneous benefits of sweet almond, evening primrose, and jojoba oils, Blaak and Staib noted that all three have been used for hundreds if not thousands of years in traditional medicine to treat various conditions, including skin disorders. Further, they concluded that the longstanding uses of these oils has been borne out by contemporary data, which reveal cutaneous benefits for adult and young skin, particularly in bolstering stratum corneum integrity, recovery, and lipid ratio.⁶

Later that year, Sanju et al., reporting on the development and assessment of a broad-spectrum polyherbal sunscreen delivered through solid lipid nanoparticles, noted that almond oil was among the natural ingredients used because of its photoprotective characteristics. Overall, the sunscreen formulation, Safranal, was found to impart robust protection against UV radiation.⁷

Wound healing

In 2020, Borzou et al. conducted a single-blind randomized clinical trial to ascertain the impact of topical almond oil in preventing pressure injuries. Data collection occurred over 8 months in a hospital setting, with 108 patients randomly assigned to receive almond oil, placebo (liquid paraffin), or the control (standard of care). The researchers found that topically applied almond oil was linked to a lower incidence of pressure injuries, and they arose later in the study as compared with those injuries in the groups receiving paraffin or standard of care. Pressure injury incidence was 5.6% in the almond oil group, 13.9% in the placebo group, and 25.1% in the control group.⁸

That same year, Caglar et al. completed a randomized controlled trial in 90 preterm infants to assess the effects of sunflower seed oil and almond oil on the stratum corneum. Infants were randomly selected for treatment with either oil or control. A nurse researcher applied oils to the whole body except for the head and face four times daily for 5 days. Investigators determined that stratum corneum hydration was better in the oil groups as compared with control, with no difference found between sunflower seed and almond oils.⁹

Eczema, hand dermatitis, and striae

In 2018, Simon et al. performed a randomized, double-blind study to determine the short- and long-term effects of two emollients on pruritus and skin restoration in xerotic eczema. The emollients contained lactic acid and refined almond oil, with one also including polidocanol. Both emollients were effective in reducing the severity of itching, with skin moisture and lipid content found to have risen after the initial administration and yielding steady improvement over 2 weeks.¹⁰

Earlier that year, Zeichner et al. found that the use of an OTC sweet almond oil, rich in fatty acids and a standard-bearing treatment for eczema and psoriasis for centuries, was effective in treating hand dermatitis. Specifically, the moisturizer, which contained 7% sweet almond oil and 2% colloidal oatmeal, was identified as safe and effective in resolving moderate to severe hand dermatitis.¹¹

Some studies have also shown almond oil to be effective against striae gravidarum. Hajhashemi et al. conducted a double-blind clinical trial in 160 nulliparous women to compare the effects of aloe vera gel and sweet almond oil on striae gravidarum in 2018. Volunteers were randomly assigned to one of three case groups (Aloe vera, sweet almond oil, or base cream) who received topical treatment on the abdomen, or the fourth group, which received no treatment. Results showed that both treatment creams were effective in decreasing erythema and the pruritus associated with striae as well as in preventing their expansion.¹² Previously, Tashan and Kafkasli showed in a nonrandomized study that massage with bitter almond oil may diminish the visibility of present striae gravidarum and prevent the emergence of new striae.¹³

Conclusion

Almonds and almond oil have been used as food and in traditional medical practices dating back several centuries. In the last decade, intriguing results have emerged regarding the effects of almond consumption or topical almond oil administration on skin health. While much more research is necessary, the recent data seem to support the traditional uses of this tree seed for dermatologic purposes.

Dr. Baumann is a private practice dermatologist, researcher, author, and entrepreneur in Miami. She founded the division of cosmetic dermatology at the University of Miami in 1997. The third edition of her bestselling textbook, “Cosmetic Dermatology” (New York: McGraw Hill), was published in 2022. Dr. Baumann has received funding for advisory boards and/or clinical research trials from Allergan, Galderma, Johnson & Johnson, and Burt’s Bees. She is the CEO of Skin Type Solutions, a SaaS company used to generate skin care routines in office and as an e-commerce solution. Write to her at [email protected].

References

1. Ahmad Z. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2010 Feb;16(1):10-2.

2. Li JN et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Sep;20(9):2975-80.

3. Rybak I et al. Nutrients. 2021 Feb 27;13(3):785.

4. Foolad N et al. Phytother Res. 2019 Dec;33(12):3212-7.

5. Lin TK et al. Int J Mol Sci. 2017 Dec 27;19(1):70.

6. Blaak J, Staib P. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2022 Feb;44(1):1-9.

7. Sanju N et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022 Oct;21(10):4433-46.

8. Borzou SR et al. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2020 Jul/Aug;47(4):336-42.

9. Caglar S et al. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2020 Aug;33(8):1-6.

10. Simon D et al. Dermatol Ther. 2018 Nov;31(6):e12692.

11. Zeichner JA at al. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018 Jan 1;17(1):78-82.

12. Hajhashemi M et al. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2018 Jul;31(13):1703-8.

13. Timur Tashan S and Kafkasli A. J Clin Nurs. 2012 Jun;21(11-12):1570-6.
 

Almonds and almond oil are known to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antihepatotoxicity, and immunity-boosting activity.¹ The seed from the deciduous almond tree (Oleum amygdalae), which is native to Iran and parts of the Levant, almonds contain copious amounts of phenols and polyphenols, fatty acids, and vitamin E, all of which are known to exert antioxidant activity.^2-5 These seeds have been found to have a substantial impact on serum lipids.⁴ Emollient and sclerosant characteristics have also been linked to almond oil, which has been found to ameliorate complexion and skin tone.⁵ Significantly, in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that UVB-induced photoaging can be attenuated through the use of almond oil and almond skin extract.² Further, in traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and ancient Greco-Persian medicine, almond oil was used to treat cutaneous conditions, including eczema and psoriasis.¹ The focus of this column is to provide an update on the use of almonds and almond oil for skincare since covering the topic in July 2014.

Antiphotoaging activity

In 2019, Foolad and Vaughn conducted a prospective, investigator-blind, randomized controlled trial to determine the effects of almond consumption on facial sebum production and wrinkles. Participants (28 postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I and II completed the study) consumed 20% of their daily energy intake in almonds or a calorie-matched snack over 16 weeks through the UC Davis Dermatology Clinic. Photographic analysis revealed that the almond group experienced significantly diminished wrinkle severity, compared with the control group. The investigators concluded that daily almond consumption has the potential to decrease wrinkle severity in postmenopausal women and that almonds may confer natural antiaging effects.⁴

In a similar investigation 2 years later, Rybak et al. reported on a prospective, randomized controlled study to ascertain the effects of almond consumption on photoaging in postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I or II who obtained 20% of their daily energy consumption via almonds or a calorie-matched snack for 24 weeks. Results demonstrated significant effects conferred by almond consumption, with average wrinkle severity substantially diminished in the almond group at weeks 16 (by 15%) and 24 (by 16%), compared with baseline. In addition, facial pigment intensity was reduced by 20% in the almond group by week 16 and this was maintained through the end of the study. Further, sebum excretion was higher in the control group. The investigators concluded that the daily consumption of almonds may have the potential to enhance protection against photoaging, particularly in terms of facial wrinkles and pigment intensity, in postmenopausal women.³

Later in 2021, Li et al. conducted a study in 39 healthy Asian women (18-45 years old) with Fitzpatrick skin types II to IV to investigate the effects of almond consumption on UVB resistance. The researchers randomized participants to eat either 1.5 oz of almonds or 1.8 oz of pretzels daily for 12 weeks. Results showed that the minimal erythema dose was higher in the almond group as compared with the control group. No differences were observed in hydration, melanin, roughness, or sebum on facial skin. The authors concluded that daily oral almond intake may improve photoprotection by raising the minimal erythema dose.²

In a 2022 review on the cutaneous benefits of sweet almond, evening primrose, and jojoba oils, Blaak and Staib noted that all three have been used for hundreds if not thousands of years in traditional medicine to treat various conditions, including skin disorders. Further, they concluded that the longstanding uses of these oils has been borne out by contemporary data, which reveal cutaneous benefits for adult and young skin, particularly in bolstering stratum corneum integrity, recovery, and lipid ratio.⁶

Later that year, Sanju et al., reporting on the development and assessment of a broad-spectrum polyherbal sunscreen delivered through solid lipid nanoparticles, noted that almond oil was among the natural ingredients used because of its photoprotective characteristics. Overall, the sunscreen formulation, Safranal, was found to impart robust protection against UV radiation.⁷

Wound healing

In 2020, Borzou et al. conducted a single-blind randomized clinical trial to ascertain the impact of topical almond oil in preventing pressure injuries. Data collection occurred over 8 months in a hospital setting, with 108 patients randomly assigned to receive almond oil, placebo (liquid paraffin), or the control (standard of care). The researchers found that topically applied almond oil was linked to a lower incidence of pressure injuries, and they arose later in the study as compared with those injuries in the groups receiving paraffin or standard of care. Pressure injury incidence was 5.6% in the almond oil group, 13.9% in the placebo group, and 25.1% in the control group.⁸

That same year, Caglar et al. completed a randomized controlled trial in 90 preterm infants to assess the effects of sunflower seed oil and almond oil on the stratum corneum. Infants were randomly selected for treatment with either oil or control. A nurse researcher applied oils to the whole body except for the head and face four times daily for 5 days. Investigators determined that stratum corneum hydration was better in the oil groups as compared with control, with no difference found between sunflower seed and almond oils.⁹

Eczema, hand dermatitis, and striae

In 2018, Simon et al. performed a randomized, double-blind study to determine the short- and long-term effects of two emollients on pruritus and skin restoration in xerotic eczema. The emollients contained lactic acid and refined almond oil, with one also including polidocanol. Both emollients were effective in reducing the severity of itching, with skin moisture and lipid content found to have risen after the initial administration and yielding steady improvement over 2 weeks.¹⁰

Earlier that year, Zeichner et al. found that the use of an OTC sweet almond oil, rich in fatty acids and a standard-bearing treatment for eczema and psoriasis for centuries, was effective in treating hand dermatitis. Specifically, the moisturizer, which contained 7% sweet almond oil and 2% colloidal oatmeal, was identified as safe and effective in resolving moderate to severe hand dermatitis.¹¹

Some studies have also shown almond oil to be effective against striae gravidarum. Hajhashemi et al. conducted a double-blind clinical trial in 160 nulliparous women to compare the effects of aloe vera gel and sweet almond oil on striae gravidarum in 2018. Volunteers were randomly assigned to one of three case groups (Aloe vera, sweet almond oil, or base cream) who received topical treatment on the abdomen, or the fourth group, which received no treatment. Results showed that both treatment creams were effective in decreasing erythema and the pruritus associated with striae as well as in preventing their expansion.¹² Previously, Tashan and Kafkasli showed in a nonrandomized study that massage with bitter almond oil may diminish the visibility of present striae gravidarum and prevent the emergence of new striae.¹³

Conclusion

Almonds and almond oil have been used as food and in traditional medical practices dating back several centuries. In the last decade, intriguing results have emerged regarding the effects of almond consumption or topical almond oil administration on skin health. While much more research is necessary, the recent data seem to support the traditional uses of this tree seed for dermatologic purposes.

Dr. Baumann is a private practice dermatologist, researcher, author, and entrepreneur in Miami. She founded the division of cosmetic dermatology at the University of Miami in 1997. The third edition of her bestselling textbook, “Cosmetic Dermatology” (New York: McGraw Hill), was published in 2022. Dr. Baumann has received funding for advisory boards and/or clinical research trials from Allergan, Galderma, Johnson & Johnson, and Burt’s Bees. She is the CEO of Skin Type Solutions, a SaaS company used to generate skin care routines in office and as an e-commerce solution. Write to her at [email protected].

References

1. Ahmad Z. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2010 Feb;16(1):10-2.

2. Li JN et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Sep;20(9):2975-80.

3. Rybak I et al. Nutrients. 2021 Feb 27;13(3):785.

4. Foolad N et al. Phytother Res. 2019 Dec;33(12):3212-7.

5. Lin TK et al. Int J Mol Sci. 2017 Dec 27;19(1):70.

6. Blaak J, Staib P. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2022 Feb;44(1):1-9.

7. Sanju N et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022 Oct;21(10):4433-46.

8. Borzou SR et al. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2020 Jul/Aug;47(4):336-42.

9. Caglar S et al. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2020 Aug;33(8):1-6.

10. Simon D et al. Dermatol Ther. 2018 Nov;31(6):e12692.

11. Zeichner JA at al. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018 Jan 1;17(1):78-82.

12. Hajhashemi M et al. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2018 Jul;31(13):1703-8.

13. Timur Tashan S and Kafkasli A. J Clin Nurs. 2012 Jun;21(11-12):1570-6.
 

Almonds and almond oil are known to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antihepatotoxicity, and immunity-boosting activity.¹ The seed from the deciduous almond tree (Oleum amygdalae), which is native to Iran and parts of the Levant, almonds contain copious amounts of phenols and polyphenols, fatty acids, and vitamin E, all of which are known to exert antioxidant activity.^2-5 These seeds have been found to have a substantial impact on serum lipids.⁴ Emollient and sclerosant characteristics have also been linked to almond oil, which has been found to ameliorate complexion and skin tone.⁵ Significantly, in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that UVB-induced photoaging can be attenuated through the use of almond oil and almond skin extract.² Further, in traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and ancient Greco-Persian medicine, almond oil was used to treat cutaneous conditions, including eczema and psoriasis.¹ The focus of this column is to provide an update on the use of almonds and almond oil for skincare since covering the topic in July 2014.

Antiphotoaging activity

In 2019, Foolad and Vaughn conducted a prospective, investigator-blind, randomized controlled trial to determine the effects of almond consumption on facial sebum production and wrinkles. Participants (28 postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I and II completed the study) consumed 20% of their daily energy intake in almonds or a calorie-matched snack over 16 weeks through the UC Davis Dermatology Clinic. Photographic analysis revealed that the almond group experienced significantly diminished wrinkle severity, compared with the control group. The investigators concluded that daily almond consumption has the potential to decrease wrinkle severity in postmenopausal women and that almonds may confer natural antiaging effects.⁴

In a similar investigation 2 years later, Rybak et al. reported on a prospective, randomized controlled study to ascertain the effects of almond consumption on photoaging in postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I or II who obtained 20% of their daily energy consumption via almonds or a calorie-matched snack for 24 weeks. Results demonstrated significant effects conferred by almond consumption, with average wrinkle severity substantially diminished in the almond group at weeks 16 (by 15%) and 24 (by 16%), compared with baseline. In addition, facial pigment intensity was reduced by 20% in the almond group by week 16 and this was maintained through the end of the study. Further, sebum excretion was higher in the control group. The investigators concluded that the daily consumption of almonds may have the potential to enhance protection against photoaging, particularly in terms of facial wrinkles and pigment intensity, in postmenopausal women.³

Later in 2021, Li et al. conducted a study in 39 healthy Asian women (18-45 years old) with Fitzpatrick skin types II to IV to investigate the effects of almond consumption on UVB resistance. The researchers randomized participants to eat either 1.5 oz of almonds or 1.8 oz of pretzels daily for 12 weeks. Results showed that the minimal erythema dose was higher in the almond group as compared with the control group. No differences were observed in hydration, melanin, roughness, or sebum on facial skin. The authors concluded that daily oral almond intake may improve photoprotection by raising the minimal erythema dose.²

In a 2022 review on the cutaneous benefits of sweet almond, evening primrose, and jojoba oils, Blaak and Staib noted that all three have been used for hundreds if not thousands of years in traditional medicine to treat various conditions, including skin disorders. Further, they concluded that the longstanding uses of these oils has been borne out by contemporary data, which reveal cutaneous benefits for adult and young skin, particularly in bolstering stratum corneum integrity, recovery, and lipid ratio.⁶

Later that year, Sanju et al., reporting on the development and assessment of a broad-spectrum polyherbal sunscreen delivered through solid lipid nanoparticles, noted that almond oil was among the natural ingredients used because of its photoprotective characteristics. Overall, the sunscreen formulation, Safranal, was found to impart robust protection against UV radiation.⁷

Wound healing

In 2020, Borzou et al. conducted a single-blind randomized clinical trial to ascertain the impact of topical almond oil in preventing pressure injuries. Data collection occurred over 8 months in a hospital setting, with 108 patients randomly assigned to receive almond oil, placebo (liquid paraffin), or the control (standard of care). The researchers found that topically applied almond oil was linked to a lower incidence of pressure injuries, and they arose later in the study as compared with those injuries in the groups receiving paraffin or standard of care. Pressure injury incidence was 5.6% in the almond oil group, 13.9% in the placebo group, and 25.1% in the control group.⁸

That same year, Caglar et al. completed a randomized controlled trial in 90 preterm infants to assess the effects of sunflower seed oil and almond oil on the stratum corneum. Infants were randomly selected for treatment with either oil or control. A nurse researcher applied oils to the whole body except for the head and face four times daily for 5 days. Investigators determined that stratum corneum hydration was better in the oil groups as compared with control, with no difference found between sunflower seed and almond oils.⁹

Eczema, hand dermatitis, and striae

In 2018, Simon et al. performed a randomized, double-blind study to determine the short- and long-term effects of two emollients on pruritus and skin restoration in xerotic eczema. The emollients contained lactic acid and refined almond oil, with one also including polidocanol. Both emollients were effective in reducing the severity of itching, with skin moisture and lipid content found to have risen after the initial administration and yielding steady improvement over 2 weeks.¹⁰

Earlier that year, Zeichner et al. found that the use of an OTC sweet almond oil, rich in fatty acids and a standard-bearing treatment for eczema and psoriasis for centuries, was effective in treating hand dermatitis. Specifically, the moisturizer, which contained 7% sweet almond oil and 2% colloidal oatmeal, was identified as safe and effective in resolving moderate to severe hand dermatitis.¹¹

Some studies have also shown almond oil to be effective against striae gravidarum. Hajhashemi et al. conducted a double-blind clinical trial in 160 nulliparous women to compare the effects of aloe vera gel and sweet almond oil on striae gravidarum in 2018. Volunteers were randomly assigned to one of three case groups (Aloe vera, sweet almond oil, or base cream) who received topical treatment on the abdomen, or the fourth group, which received no treatment. Results showed that both treatment creams were effective in decreasing erythema and the pruritus associated with striae as well as in preventing their expansion.¹² Previously, Tashan and Kafkasli showed in a nonrandomized study that massage with bitter almond oil may diminish the visibility of present striae gravidarum and prevent the emergence of new striae.¹³

Conclusion

Almonds and almond oil have been used as food and in traditional medical practices dating back several centuries. In the last decade, intriguing results have emerged regarding the effects of almond consumption or topical almond oil administration on skin health. While much more research is necessary, the recent data seem to support the traditional uses of this tree seed for dermatologic purposes.

Dr. Baumann is a private practice dermatologist, researcher, author, and entrepreneur in Miami. She founded the division of cosmetic dermatology at the University of Miami in 1997. The third edition of her bestselling textbook, “Cosmetic Dermatology” (New York: McGraw Hill), was published in 2022. Dr. Baumann has received funding for advisory boards and/or clinical research trials from Allergan, Galderma, Johnson & Johnson, and Burt’s Bees. She is the CEO of Skin Type Solutions, a SaaS company used to generate skin care routines in office and as an e-commerce solution. Write to her at [email protected].

References

1. Ahmad Z. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2010 Feb;16(1):10-2.

2. Li JN et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Sep;20(9):2975-80.

3. Rybak I et al. Nutrients. 2021 Feb 27;13(3):785.

4. Foolad N et al. Phytother Res. 2019 Dec;33(12):3212-7.

5. Lin TK et al. Int J Mol Sci. 2017 Dec 27;19(1):70.

6. Blaak J, Staib P. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2022 Feb;44(1):1-9.

7. Sanju N et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022 Oct;21(10):4433-46.

8. Borzou SR et al. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2020 Jul/Aug;47(4):336-42.

9. Caglar S et al. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2020 Aug;33(8):1-6.

10. Simon D et al. Dermatol Ther. 2018 Nov;31(6):e12692.

11. Zeichner JA at al. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018 Jan 1;17(1):78-82.

12. Hajhashemi M et al. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2018 Jul;31(13):1703-8.

13. Timur Tashan S and Kafkasli A. J Clin Nurs. 2012 Jun;21(11-12):1570-6.
 

Pregnant women with atopic dermatitis (AD) are more likely to be colonized with group B streptococcus (GBS), compared with other pregnant women, results from a large cross-sectional study suggest.

“The rate of GBS colonization among pregnant females with a history of AD has not been previously reported, but AD could be a risk factor for maternal carriage of GBS,” corresponding author David J. Margolis, MD, PhD, of the department of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and colleagues wrote in the study, which was published as a letter to the editor online in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. “GBS reporting in a large administrative database represents a unique opportunity to conduct a population-based evaluation of GBS carriage with AD. Understanding this association could expand our understanding of microbial changes associated with AD,” they noted.

To determine if an association between GBS and AD in pregnant women exists, the researchers performed a cross-sectional study using a random sample from an Optum administrative database of pregnant women who had vaginal deliveries between May of 2007 and September 2021. The primary outcome of interest was the presence of GBS based on American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists–recommended codes for GBS during 36 0/7 to 37 6/7 weeks of pregnancy. They used descriptive statistics to summarize categorical and continuous variables as proportions and means, and logistic regression to examine the association between AD and GBS status.

The cohort included 566,467 pregnant women with an average age of 38.8 years. Of these, 2.9% had a diagnosis of AD or a history of AD, and 24.9% had diagnoses of asthma, seasonal allergies, or both. Women with AD had an increased odds ratio of asthma (OR, 2.55), seasonal allergies (OR, 3.39), or both (OR, 5.35), compared with those without AD.

GBS was reported in 20.6% of the cohort. The median time of follow-up for those with and without GBS was 494 days and 468 days, respectively (P = .134). Among the women with AD, 24.1% had GBS, compared with 20.51% of the women without AD (P <.0001), which translated into an OR of 1.23 (95% confidence interval, 1.18-1.27).

Among the women with GBS, the OR of asthma was 1.08 (95% CI, 1.06-1.10) and was 1.07 (95% CI, 1.05-1.09) among those with seasonal allergies. When adjusted for potential confounders, these findings did not change substantively.

“It is not apparent why pregnant females with AD are more likely to specifically carry GBS,” the authors wrote. “However, several studies have shown that individuals with AD are more likely to carry [Staphylococcus] aureus and that individuals with AD might be deficient in host defenses against S. aureus and other pathogens,” they added.

“Individuals with AD frequently receive antibiotics as part of their AD treatment and this might alter their resident microbiome. Carriage rates may be enhanced by the inhibition of an important barrier protein called filaggrin (FLG) and FLG loss of function genetic variation is known to decrease barrier proteins thought to inhibit the colonization of S. aureus and other pathogens,” the researchers wrote.

They acknowledged certain limitations of their study, including its reliance on an administrative database that does not contain information on past disease.

Asked to comment on the results, Adam Friedman, MD, professor and chair of dermatology at George Washington University, Washington, who was not involved with the study, characterized AD as “the poster child for cutaneous dysbiosis – an altered petri dish, so to speak, [that] facilitates survival of the few, leading to decreased microbial diversity that can both enable potential pathogen invasion and immune dysregulation.”

Though it’s not surprising that pregnant AD patients have dysbiosis, the focus on GBS, “which can be a bad actor in the perinatal period, is an interesting connection,” he said. “Will this change practices? Pregnant women should be screened for GBS regardless, but maybe more attention or counseling can be offered to AD patients about the importance of screening. Would decolonization regimens be employed early in pregnancy? This study can’t answer that but certainly raises good questions.”

Dr. Margolis disclosed that he is or recently has been a consultant for Pfizer, Leo, and Sanofi with respect to studies of atopic dermatitis and served on an advisory board for the National Eczema Association. Another author disclosed receiving grants from companies related to work with AD; other authors had no disclosures. Dr. Friedman reported having no relevant disclosures.

Pregnant women with atopic dermatitis (AD) are more likely to be colonized with group B streptococcus (GBS), compared with other pregnant women, results from a large cross-sectional study suggest.

“The rate of GBS colonization among pregnant females with a history of AD has not been previously reported, but AD could be a risk factor for maternal carriage of GBS,” corresponding author David J. Margolis, MD, PhD, of the department of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and colleagues wrote in the study, which was published as a letter to the editor online in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. “GBS reporting in a large administrative database represents a unique opportunity to conduct a population-based evaluation of GBS carriage with AD. Understanding this association could expand our understanding of microbial changes associated with AD,” they noted.

To determine if an association between GBS and AD in pregnant women exists, the researchers performed a cross-sectional study using a random sample from an Optum administrative database of pregnant women who had vaginal deliveries between May of 2007 and September 2021. The primary outcome of interest was the presence of GBS based on American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists–recommended codes for GBS during 36 0/7 to 37 6/7 weeks of pregnancy. They used descriptive statistics to summarize categorical and continuous variables as proportions and means, and logistic regression to examine the association between AD and GBS status.

The cohort included 566,467 pregnant women with an average age of 38.8 years. Of these, 2.9% had a diagnosis of AD or a history of AD, and 24.9% had diagnoses of asthma, seasonal allergies, or both. Women with AD had an increased odds ratio of asthma (OR, 2.55), seasonal allergies (OR, 3.39), or both (OR, 5.35), compared with those without AD.

GBS was reported in 20.6% of the cohort. The median time of follow-up for those with and without GBS was 494 days and 468 days, respectively (P = .134). Among the women with AD, 24.1% had GBS, compared with 20.51% of the women without AD (P <.0001), which translated into an OR of 1.23 (95% confidence interval, 1.18-1.27).

Among the women with GBS, the OR of asthma was 1.08 (95% CI, 1.06-1.10) and was 1.07 (95% CI, 1.05-1.09) among those with seasonal allergies. When adjusted for potential confounders, these findings did not change substantively.

“It is not apparent why pregnant females with AD are more likely to specifically carry GBS,” the authors wrote. “However, several studies have shown that individuals with AD are more likely to carry [Staphylococcus] aureus and that individuals with AD might be deficient in host defenses against S. aureus and other pathogens,” they added.

“Individuals with AD frequently receive antibiotics as part of their AD treatment and this might alter their resident microbiome. Carriage rates may be enhanced by the inhibition of an important barrier protein called filaggrin (FLG) and FLG loss of function genetic variation is known to decrease barrier proteins thought to inhibit the colonization of S. aureus and other pathogens,” the researchers wrote.

They acknowledged certain limitations of their study, including its reliance on an administrative database that does not contain information on past disease.

Asked to comment on the results, Adam Friedman, MD, professor and chair of dermatology at George Washington University, Washington, who was not involved with the study, characterized AD as “the poster child for cutaneous dysbiosis – an altered petri dish, so to speak, [that] facilitates survival of the few, leading to decreased microbial diversity that can both enable potential pathogen invasion and immune dysregulation.”

Though it’s not surprising that pregnant AD patients have dysbiosis, the focus on GBS, “which can be a bad actor in the perinatal period, is an interesting connection,” he said. “Will this change practices? Pregnant women should be screened for GBS regardless, but maybe more attention or counseling can be offered to AD patients about the importance of screening. Would decolonization regimens be employed early in pregnancy? This study can’t answer that but certainly raises good questions.”

Dr. Margolis disclosed that he is or recently has been a consultant for Pfizer, Leo, and Sanofi with respect to studies of atopic dermatitis and served on an advisory board for the National Eczema Association. Another author disclosed receiving grants from companies related to work with AD; other authors had no disclosures. Dr. Friedman reported having no relevant disclosures.

Pregnant women with atopic dermatitis (AD) are more likely to be colonized with group B streptococcus (GBS), compared with other pregnant women, results from a large cross-sectional study suggest.

“The rate of GBS colonization among pregnant females with a history of AD has not been previously reported, but AD could be a risk factor for maternal carriage of GBS,” corresponding author David J. Margolis, MD, PhD, of the department of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and colleagues wrote in the study, which was published as a letter to the editor online in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. “GBS reporting in a large administrative database represents a unique opportunity to conduct a population-based evaluation of GBS carriage with AD. Understanding this association could expand our understanding of microbial changes associated with AD,” they noted.

To determine if an association between GBS and AD in pregnant women exists, the researchers performed a cross-sectional study using a random sample from an Optum administrative database of pregnant women who had vaginal deliveries between May of 2007 and September 2021. The primary outcome of interest was the presence of GBS based on American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists–recommended codes for GBS during 36 0/7 to 37 6/7 weeks of pregnancy. They used descriptive statistics to summarize categorical and continuous variables as proportions and means, and logistic regression to examine the association between AD and GBS status.

The cohort included 566,467 pregnant women with an average age of 38.8 years. Of these, 2.9% had a diagnosis of AD or a history of AD, and 24.9% had diagnoses of asthma, seasonal allergies, or both. Women with AD had an increased odds ratio of asthma (OR, 2.55), seasonal allergies (OR, 3.39), or both (OR, 5.35), compared with those without AD.

GBS was reported in 20.6% of the cohort. The median time of follow-up for those with and without GBS was 494 days and 468 days, respectively (P = .134). Among the women with AD, 24.1% had GBS, compared with 20.51% of the women without AD (P <.0001), which translated into an OR of 1.23 (95% confidence interval, 1.18-1.27).

Among the women with GBS, the OR of asthma was 1.08 (95% CI, 1.06-1.10) and was 1.07 (95% CI, 1.05-1.09) among those with seasonal allergies. When adjusted for potential confounders, these findings did not change substantively.

“It is not apparent why pregnant females with AD are more likely to specifically carry GBS,” the authors wrote. “However, several studies have shown that individuals with AD are more likely to carry [Staphylococcus] aureus and that individuals with AD might be deficient in host defenses against S. aureus and other pathogens,” they added.

“Individuals with AD frequently receive antibiotics as part of their AD treatment and this might alter their resident microbiome. Carriage rates may be enhanced by the inhibition of an important barrier protein called filaggrin (FLG) and FLG loss of function genetic variation is known to decrease barrier proteins thought to inhibit the colonization of S. aureus and other pathogens,” the researchers wrote.

They acknowledged certain limitations of their study, including its reliance on an administrative database that does not contain information on past disease.

Asked to comment on the results, Adam Friedman, MD, professor and chair of dermatology at George Washington University, Washington, who was not involved with the study, characterized AD as “the poster child for cutaneous dysbiosis – an altered petri dish, so to speak, [that] facilitates survival of the few, leading to decreased microbial diversity that can both enable potential pathogen invasion and immune dysregulation.”

Though it’s not surprising that pregnant AD patients have dysbiosis, the focus on GBS, “which can be a bad actor in the perinatal period, is an interesting connection,” he said. “Will this change practices? Pregnant women should be screened for GBS regardless, but maybe more attention or counseling can be offered to AD patients about the importance of screening. Would decolonization regimens be employed early in pregnancy? This study can’t answer that but certainly raises good questions.”

Dr. Margolis disclosed that he is or recently has been a consultant for Pfizer, Leo, and Sanofi with respect to studies of atopic dermatitis and served on an advisory board for the National Eczema Association. Another author disclosed receiving grants from companies related to work with AD; other authors had no disclosures. Dr. Friedman reported having no relevant disclosures.

Amlitelimab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the OX40 ligand (Weidinger et al). It is predicted to have broad potential therapeutic application for multiple immune diseases, including atopic dermatitis. I'm not looking for that. I've been spoiled by drugs that have narrow therapeutic application (like IL-23 blockade and IL-4/IL-13 blockade) that target a specific disease very effectively with very little in the way of side effects.

The OX40 ligand/receptor interaction may be too important. When I Google "OX40 deficiency," the first thing that pops up is a combined T- and B-cell immunodeficiency associated with possible aggressive, childhood-onset, disseminated, cutaneous, and systemic Kaposi sarcoma. That doesn't mean that such a horrible outcome will come with the level of pharmacologic OX40 blockade that we would try to achieve in our patients. Clinical trials don't show horrible adverse events — so far. I'm in no hurry to find out in my patients whether real-life efficacy in large numbers of people treated for long periods of time matches up with the short-term safety profiles seen in relatively small clinical trial populations.

It might be nice to give patients upadacitinib only as needed, for example for a flare of their atopic dermatitis, then cut down the dose or stop altogether until the next flare. The study by Guttman-Yassky and colleagues found that atopic dermatitis came back quickly when upadacitinib was stopped. However, their study looked at patients with chronically bad atopic dermatitis. If we have a patient who tends to flare only intermittently, it may be that we could use upadacitinib or other systemic treatments on an intermittent basis. I know when it came to my son's mild atopic dermatitis, intermittent use of a little triamcinolone ointment was all that was needed. Yes, I know that's a "reactive," roller-coaster approach. Yes, I know that a "proactive" keep-the-disease-away approach sounds better. But I'm realistic when it comes to patients' adherence behaviors. I think there's a lot to be said for minimizing drug exposure and just using treatments as needed. Guttman-Yassky's work makes me believe that a lot of patients will need continuous treatment to keep their severe disease under control. I'm not convinced that everyone will need continuous treatment to be happy with their treatment.

O'Connor and colleagues found that emollient bathing is associated with later development of atopic dermatitis. They defined emollient bathing as baths with oil or emulsifier-based additives. This study illustrates the importance of randomization in a controlled trial. Because their study was not randomized, we don't know whether the emollient bathing caused atopic dermatitis or whether families that had more dry skin or more family history of atopic dermatitis were more likely to use emollient bathing.

When dupilumab was first approved, I prescribed it to my patients to take every 2 weeks as recommended on the label. I'm not so sure how many patients actually used it that way. I suspect that a lot of them took the medicine less often than recommended, especially when they were doing well. This report by Sánchez-García and colleagues suggests that patients who are doing very well on dupilumab may be able to take the drug less often. That's probably not news to my patients who are already taking the drug less often than I told them to.

I think less frequent dosing may become even more common over time, particularly for drugs that may have more safety risks than dupilumab. Many patients with atopic dermatitis probably don't need to be taking drugs all the time. Patients who tend to have flare-ups but who do very well for a long period of time between flares may only need drugs intermittently. It will be interesting to see if our patients can use oral treatments for atopic dermatitis that way.

Siegfried and colleagues assessed how well dupilumab worked in children with atopic dermatitis in different areas of the body: head and neck, trunk, upper extremities, lower extremities. Dupilumab worked well in all these areas, as expected.

Xu and colleagues did a meta-analysis of studies of dupilumab for atopic dermatitis and concluded, not shockingly, that dupilumab is safe and effective for atopic dermatitis. Okay, I believe that. They further concluded: "More long-term, high-quality, controlled studies in different regions are needed for further verification." I don't think so. I think the evidence is clear already.

Studies that measure the levels of things are generally not particularly helpful. The study by García-Reyes and colleagues studied the levels of serum thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in patients with atopic dermatitis. TSLP levels were higher in patients with atopic dermatitis compared with patients without atopic dermatitis. This basically tells us nothing about the role of TSLP in atopic dermatitis. The elevated levels could be causing atopic dermatitis or they could be the body's response to having atopic dermatitis.

To tell whether something is causal we have to look at either genetic studies or studies with specific inhibitors. A specific inhibitor study was done by atopic dermatitis expert Eric Simpson and colleagues.1 This was a randomized, placebo-controlled study in which an anti-TSLP antibody was given to patients with atopic dermatitis. Both the anti-TSLP antibody and placebo groups were permitted to use topical steroids. While the anti-TSLP antibody–treated patients did better than placebo-treated patients, the difference did not achieve statistical significance, probably, I believe, because the placebo-treated patients used more topical steroids. When you want to assess whether a drug for atopic dermatitis is better than placebo, you must be careful about how much topical steroid you let patients in the study use!

Additional Reference

1. Simpson EL, Parnes JR, She D, et al. Tezepelumab, an anti-thymic stromal lymphopoietin monoclonal antibody, in the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis: A randomized phase 2a clinical trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019;80(4):1013-1021. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.11.059

Amlitelimab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the OX40 ligand (Weidinger et al). It is predicted to have broad potential therapeutic application for multiple immune diseases, including atopic dermatitis. I'm not looking for that. I've been spoiled by drugs that have narrow therapeutic application (like IL-23 blockade and IL-4/IL-13 blockade) that target a specific disease very effectively with very little in the way of side effects.

The OX40 ligand/receptor interaction may be too important. When I Google "OX40 deficiency," the first thing that pops up is a combined T- and B-cell immunodeficiency associated with possible aggressive, childhood-onset, disseminated, cutaneous, and systemic Kaposi sarcoma. That doesn't mean that such a horrible outcome will come with the level of pharmacologic OX40 blockade that we would try to achieve in our patients. Clinical trials don't show horrible adverse events — so far. I'm in no hurry to find out in my patients whether real-life efficacy in large numbers of people treated for long periods of time matches up with the short-term safety profiles seen in relatively small clinical trial populations.

It might be nice to give patients upadacitinib only as needed, for example for a flare of their atopic dermatitis, then cut down the dose or stop altogether until the next flare. The study by Guttman-Yassky and colleagues found that atopic dermatitis came back quickly when upadacitinib was stopped. However, their study looked at patients with chronically bad atopic dermatitis. If we have a patient who tends to flare only intermittently, it may be that we could use upadacitinib or other systemic treatments on an intermittent basis. I know when it came to my son's mild atopic dermatitis, intermittent use of a little triamcinolone ointment was all that was needed. Yes, I know that's a "reactive," roller-coaster approach. Yes, I know that a "proactive" keep-the-disease-away approach sounds better. But I'm realistic when it comes to patients' adherence behaviors. I think there's a lot to be said for minimizing drug exposure and just using treatments as needed. Guttman-Yassky's work makes me believe that a lot of patients will need continuous treatment to keep their severe disease under control. I'm not convinced that everyone will need continuous treatment to be happy with their treatment.

O'Connor and colleagues found that emollient bathing is associated with later development of atopic dermatitis. They defined emollient bathing as baths with oil or emulsifier-based additives. This study illustrates the importance of randomization in a controlled trial. Because their study was not randomized, we don't know whether the emollient bathing caused atopic dermatitis or whether families that had more dry skin or more family history of atopic dermatitis were more likely to use emollient bathing.

When dupilumab was first approved, I prescribed it to my patients to take every 2 weeks as recommended on the label. I'm not so sure how many patients actually used it that way. I suspect that a lot of them took the medicine less often than recommended, especially when they were doing well. This report by Sánchez-García and colleagues suggests that patients who are doing very well on dupilumab may be able to take the drug less often. That's probably not news to my patients who are already taking the drug less often than I told them to.

I think less frequent dosing may become even more common over time, particularly for drugs that may have more safety risks than dupilumab. Many patients with atopic dermatitis probably don't need to be taking drugs all the time. Patients who tend to have flare-ups but who do very well for a long period of time between flares may only need drugs intermittently. It will be interesting to see if our patients can use oral treatments for atopic dermatitis that way.

Siegfried and colleagues assessed how well dupilumab worked in children with atopic dermatitis in different areas of the body: head and neck, trunk, upper extremities, lower extremities. Dupilumab worked well in all these areas, as expected.

Xu and colleagues did a meta-analysis of studies of dupilumab for atopic dermatitis and concluded, not shockingly, that dupilumab is safe and effective for atopic dermatitis. Okay, I believe that. They further concluded: "More long-term, high-quality, controlled studies in different regions are needed for further verification." I don't think so. I think the evidence is clear already.

Studies that measure the levels of things are generally not particularly helpful. The study by García-Reyes and colleagues studied the levels of serum thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in patients with atopic dermatitis. TSLP levels were higher in patients with atopic dermatitis compared with patients without atopic dermatitis. This basically tells us nothing about the role of TSLP in atopic dermatitis. The elevated levels could be causing atopic dermatitis or they could be the body's response to having atopic dermatitis.

To tell whether something is causal we have to look at either genetic studies or studies with specific inhibitors. A specific inhibitor study was done by atopic dermatitis expert Eric Simpson and colleagues.1 This was a randomized, placebo-controlled study in which an anti-TSLP antibody was given to patients with atopic dermatitis. Both the anti-TSLP antibody and placebo groups were permitted to use topical steroids. While the anti-TSLP antibody–treated patients did better than placebo-treated patients, the difference did not achieve statistical significance, probably, I believe, because the placebo-treated patients used more topical steroids. When you want to assess whether a drug for atopic dermatitis is better than placebo, you must be careful about how much topical steroid you let patients in the study use!

Additional Reference

1. Simpson EL, Parnes JR, She D, et al. Tezepelumab, an anti-thymic stromal lymphopoietin monoclonal antibody, in the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis: A randomized phase 2a clinical trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019;80(4):1013-1021. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.11.059

Amlitelimab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the OX40 ligand (Weidinger et al). It is predicted to have broad potential therapeutic application for multiple immune diseases, including atopic dermatitis. I'm not looking for that. I've been spoiled by drugs that have narrow therapeutic application (like IL-23 blockade and IL-4/IL-13 blockade) that target a specific disease very effectively with very little in the way of side effects.

The OX40 ligand/receptor interaction may be too important. When I Google "OX40 deficiency," the first thing that pops up is a combined T- and B-cell immunodeficiency associated with possible aggressive, childhood-onset, disseminated, cutaneous, and systemic Kaposi sarcoma. That doesn't mean that such a horrible outcome will come with the level of pharmacologic OX40 blockade that we would try to achieve in our patients. Clinical trials don't show horrible adverse events — so far. I'm in no hurry to find out in my patients whether real-life efficacy in large numbers of people treated for long periods of time matches up with the short-term safety profiles seen in relatively small clinical trial populations.

It might be nice to give patients upadacitinib only as needed, for example for a flare of their atopic dermatitis, then cut down the dose or stop altogether until the next flare. The study by Guttman-Yassky and colleagues found that atopic dermatitis came back quickly when upadacitinib was stopped. However, their study looked at patients with chronically bad atopic dermatitis. If we have a patient who tends to flare only intermittently, it may be that we could use upadacitinib or other systemic treatments on an intermittent basis. I know when it came to my son's mild atopic dermatitis, intermittent use of a little triamcinolone ointment was all that was needed. Yes, I know that's a "reactive," roller-coaster approach. Yes, I know that a "proactive" keep-the-disease-away approach sounds better. But I'm realistic when it comes to patients' adherence behaviors. I think there's a lot to be said for minimizing drug exposure and just using treatments as needed. Guttman-Yassky's work makes me believe that a lot of patients will need continuous treatment to keep their severe disease under control. I'm not convinced that everyone will need continuous treatment to be happy with their treatment.

O'Connor and colleagues found that emollient bathing is associated with later development of atopic dermatitis. They defined emollient bathing as baths with oil or emulsifier-based additives. This study illustrates the importance of randomization in a controlled trial. Because their study was not randomized, we don't know whether the emollient bathing caused atopic dermatitis or whether families that had more dry skin or more family history of atopic dermatitis were more likely to use emollient bathing.

When dupilumab was first approved, I prescribed it to my patients to take every 2 weeks as recommended on the label. I'm not so sure how many patients actually used it that way. I suspect that a lot of them took the medicine less often than recommended, especially when they were doing well. This report by Sánchez-García and colleagues suggests that patients who are doing very well on dupilumab may be able to take the drug less often. That's probably not news to my patients who are already taking the drug less often than I told them to.

I think less frequent dosing may become even more common over time, particularly for drugs that may have more safety risks than dupilumab. Many patients with atopic dermatitis probably don't need to be taking drugs all the time. Patients who tend to have flare-ups but who do very well for a long period of time between flares may only need drugs intermittently. It will be interesting to see if our patients can use oral treatments for atopic dermatitis that way.

Siegfried and colleagues assessed how well dupilumab worked in children with atopic dermatitis in different areas of the body: head and neck, trunk, upper extremities, lower extremities. Dupilumab worked well in all these areas, as expected.

Xu and colleagues did a meta-analysis of studies of dupilumab for atopic dermatitis and concluded, not shockingly, that dupilumab is safe and effective for atopic dermatitis. Okay, I believe that. They further concluded: "More long-term, high-quality, controlled studies in different regions are needed for further verification." I don't think so. I think the evidence is clear already.

Studies that measure the levels of things are generally not particularly helpful. The study by García-Reyes and colleagues studied the levels of serum thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in patients with atopic dermatitis. TSLP levels were higher in patients with atopic dermatitis compared with patients without atopic dermatitis. This basically tells us nothing about the role of TSLP in atopic dermatitis. The elevated levels could be causing atopic dermatitis or they could be the body's response to having atopic dermatitis.

To tell whether something is causal we have to look at either genetic studies or studies with specific inhibitors. A specific inhibitor study was done by atopic dermatitis expert Eric Simpson and colleagues.1 This was a randomized, placebo-controlled study in which an anti-TSLP antibody was given to patients with atopic dermatitis. Both the anti-TSLP antibody and placebo groups were permitted to use topical steroids. While the anti-TSLP antibody–treated patients did better than placebo-treated patients, the difference did not achieve statistical significance, probably, I believe, because the placebo-treated patients used more topical steroids. When you want to assess whether a drug for atopic dermatitis is better than placebo, you must be careful about how much topical steroid you let patients in the study use!

Additional Reference

1. Simpson EL, Parnes JR, She D, et al. Tezepelumab, an anti-thymic stromal lymphopoietin monoclonal antibody, in the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis: A randomized phase 2a clinical trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019;80(4):1013-1021. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.11.059

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Treating chronic pediatric skin diseases requires an understanding of the barriers that many children face in obtaining the consistent health care they need, according to a pediatric dermatologist who addressed the annual meeting of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology.

As a general principle for treating chronic skin conditions in children who are not doing well, it is reasonable to draw out information about a patient’s access to adequate housing, nutrition, and other basic needs, George Hightower, MD, PhD, of the division of pediatric and adolescent dermatology, University of California, San Diego, said at the meeting.

“We need conversations about where patients play, learn, and rest their heads at night,” said Dr. Hightower, who conducts research in this area. Fundamental components of well-being, such as stable housing and secure access to nutrition “are inseparable” from a child’s health, he noted.

“What are the stakes?” he asked. For many children, these factors might mean the difference between effective and poor control of the diseases for which the patient is seeking care.

To illustrate the point, Dr. Hightower used hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a disease that appears to be on the rise among adolescents, as an example of why patient circumstances matter and should be considered. A complex disorder that is more prevalent in resource-poor communities, HS is difficult to control, often requiring extended periods of treatment with medications that can involve complex dosing or regular infusions.

“There is a need for medical providers to help the patient plan for this chronic illness,” said Dr. Hightower, referring to the importance of close follow-up. In adolescents, HS can be sufficiently disruptive from both the physical and psychological perspective that poor control can “derail future aspirations” by complicating educational endeavors and social interactions.

Dr. Hightower acknowledged that simply documenting housing insecurity or other issues does not solve these problems, but he does believe that developing a sensitivity to these obstacles to health care is a first step. It is a process that should permeate into medical training, health care research, and strategies to improve outcomes.

“The connections between fair housing and clinical practice may appear tenuous and inconsequential to the care provided by medical specialists,” Dr. Hightower said, but he emphasized that there are clear consequences when these factors contribute to inadequate control of such diseases as HS. As a source of missed appointments and disjointed care, an unstable home life can be an important barrier to disease control – and because of scarring nodules, fistulae, pain, school absences, and social isolation, complications can be dire.

Solutions to insecure housing are not typically available to an individual clinician, but the awareness that this can be a factor can help both physicians and patients begin to think about the role this plays in impairing recovery and what solutions might be found to modify the impact. Awareness not just among individual clinicians but a broader consortium of those working to improve health care outcomes is needed to “challenge the way we are doing medicine,” he said.

While conversations about the social determinants of health, including access to resources within patients’ neighborhoods, schools, and environment, can demonstrate concern about how to address obstacles, it can also be part of a reorientation to think beyond treatment for the underlying pathology alone. Eliciting trust and emphasizing the importance of environmental barriers to adequate care can be positive steps on the path to solutions.


 

Participatory action research

Relevant to this orientation, Dr. Hightower spoke about participatory action research (PAR), which provides a framework for patients to participate in the planning of clinical studies to effect change, not just serve as subjects in these studies.

The assumption of PAR is that “all people have valuable knowledge about their lives and experiences,” Dr. Hightower said. From this assumption, individuals who have been historically marginalized by race, income, or other factors can help define the problems from the patient’s perspective and, from there, create studies to seek solutions.

PAR is consistent with a patient-centered approach to medical care, which Dr. Hightower called “the future of medicine.” It involves a big-picture approach to look beyond disease pathology and symptoms to factors that might be creating susceptibility to disease and undermining health care.

Organized medicine alone cannot solve the cause of social inequities leading to disparate risks for disease and risks of inadequate health care, but Dr. Hightower argued that these inequities should not be ignored. He believes medical trainees should learn how to elicit information about the barriers to adequate health care and be aware of solutions, such as fair housing policies.

While he believes that PAR is an example of a pathway to problem solving, he suggested that a comprehensive approach requires an effective method of communication between providers and patients that would lead to a collaborative and mutually reinforcing approach.

“How do we ensure that individuals from communities most impacted by health disparities are treated fairly and empowered to address these disparities?” Dr. Hightower asked. He said that this is the direction of his own research and the issues that inhibit adequate treatment of many dermatologic diseases, as well as other types of disease, in childhood.

Craig Burkhart, MD, director of a private pediatric and adolescent dermatology practice in Cary, N.C., said that Dr. Hightower’s message is relevant. The value of considering and addressing the psychological well-being of patients of any age is not a new concept, but he acknowledged that he, for one, has not routinely inquired about obstacles to follow-up care if there is a signal that this might be an issue.

“As dermatologists, we focus on the acute complaints. We want to make the patient better,” said Dr. Burkhart, who moderated the session in which Dr. Hightower spoke. He agreed with Dr. Hightower that environmental factors make a difference on the road to recovery for a patient, and his presentation was a good reminder, he said, to consider the patient’s circumstances when response to treatment is inadequate, particularly in chronic diseases like HS, for which comprehensive care and close follow-up are needed.

Dr. Hightower and Dr. Burkhart report no potential conflicts of interest.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Treating chronic pediatric skin diseases requires an understanding of the barriers that many children face in obtaining the consistent health care they need, according to a pediatric dermatologist who addressed the annual meeting of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology.

As a general principle for treating chronic skin conditions in children who are not doing well, it is reasonable to draw out information about a patient’s access to adequate housing, nutrition, and other basic needs, George Hightower, MD, PhD, of the division of pediatric and adolescent dermatology, University of California, San Diego, said at the meeting.

“We need conversations about where patients play, learn, and rest their heads at night,” said Dr. Hightower, who conducts research in this area. Fundamental components of well-being, such as stable housing and secure access to nutrition “are inseparable” from a child’s health, he noted.

“What are the stakes?” he asked. For many children, these factors might mean the difference between effective and poor control of the diseases for which the patient is seeking care.

To illustrate the point, Dr. Hightower used hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a disease that appears to be on the rise among adolescents, as an example of why patient circumstances matter and should be considered. A complex disorder that is more prevalent in resource-poor communities, HS is difficult to control, often requiring extended periods of treatment with medications that can involve complex dosing or regular infusions.

“There is a need for medical providers to help the patient plan for this chronic illness,” said Dr. Hightower, referring to the importance of close follow-up. In adolescents, HS can be sufficiently disruptive from both the physical and psychological perspective that poor control can “derail future aspirations” by complicating educational endeavors and social interactions.

Dr. Hightower acknowledged that simply documenting housing insecurity or other issues does not solve these problems, but he does believe that developing a sensitivity to these obstacles to health care is a first step. It is a process that should permeate into medical training, health care research, and strategies to improve outcomes.

“The connections between fair housing and clinical practice may appear tenuous and inconsequential to the care provided by medical specialists,” Dr. Hightower said, but he emphasized that there are clear consequences when these factors contribute to inadequate control of such diseases as HS. As a source of missed appointments and disjointed care, an unstable home life can be an important barrier to disease control – and because of scarring nodules, fistulae, pain, school absences, and social isolation, complications can be dire.

Solutions to insecure housing are not typically available to an individual clinician, but the awareness that this can be a factor can help both physicians and patients begin to think about the role this plays in impairing recovery and what solutions might be found to modify the impact. Awareness not just among individual clinicians but a broader consortium of those working to improve health care outcomes is needed to “challenge the way we are doing medicine,” he said.

While conversations about the social determinants of health, including access to resources within patients’ neighborhoods, schools, and environment, can demonstrate concern about how to address obstacles, it can also be part of a reorientation to think beyond treatment for the underlying pathology alone. Eliciting trust and emphasizing the importance of environmental barriers to adequate care can be positive steps on the path to solutions.


 

Participatory action research

Relevant to this orientation, Dr. Hightower spoke about participatory action research (PAR), which provides a framework for patients to participate in the planning of clinical studies to effect change, not just serve as subjects in these studies.

The assumption of PAR is that “all people have valuable knowledge about their lives and experiences,” Dr. Hightower said. From this assumption, individuals who have been historically marginalized by race, income, or other factors can help define the problems from the patient’s perspective and, from there, create studies to seek solutions.

PAR is consistent with a patient-centered approach to medical care, which Dr. Hightower called “the future of medicine.” It involves a big-picture approach to look beyond disease pathology and symptoms to factors that might be creating susceptibility to disease and undermining health care.

Organized medicine alone cannot solve the cause of social inequities leading to disparate risks for disease and risks of inadequate health care, but Dr. Hightower argued that these inequities should not be ignored. He believes medical trainees should learn how to elicit information about the barriers to adequate health care and be aware of solutions, such as fair housing policies.

While he believes that PAR is an example of a pathway to problem solving, he suggested that a comprehensive approach requires an effective method of communication between providers and patients that would lead to a collaborative and mutually reinforcing approach.

“How do we ensure that individuals from communities most impacted by health disparities are treated fairly and empowered to address these disparities?” Dr. Hightower asked. He said that this is the direction of his own research and the issues that inhibit adequate treatment of many dermatologic diseases, as well as other types of disease, in childhood.

Craig Burkhart, MD, director of a private pediatric and adolescent dermatology practice in Cary, N.C., said that Dr. Hightower’s message is relevant. The value of considering and addressing the psychological well-being of patients of any age is not a new concept, but he acknowledged that he, for one, has not routinely inquired about obstacles to follow-up care if there is a signal that this might be an issue.

“As dermatologists, we focus on the acute complaints. We want to make the patient better,” said Dr. Burkhart, who moderated the session in which Dr. Hightower spoke. He agreed with Dr. Hightower that environmental factors make a difference on the road to recovery for a patient, and his presentation was a good reminder, he said, to consider the patient’s circumstances when response to treatment is inadequate, particularly in chronic diseases like HS, for which comprehensive care and close follow-up are needed.

Dr. Hightower and Dr. Burkhart report no potential conflicts of interest.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Treating chronic pediatric skin diseases requires an understanding of the barriers that many children face in obtaining the consistent health care they need, according to a pediatric dermatologist who addressed the annual meeting of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology.

As a general principle for treating chronic skin conditions in children who are not doing well, it is reasonable to draw out information about a patient’s access to adequate housing, nutrition, and other basic needs, George Hightower, MD, PhD, of the division of pediatric and adolescent dermatology, University of California, San Diego, said at the meeting.

“We need conversations about where patients play, learn, and rest their heads at night,” said Dr. Hightower, who conducts research in this area. Fundamental components of well-being, such as stable housing and secure access to nutrition “are inseparable” from a child’s health, he noted.

“What are the stakes?” he asked. For many children, these factors might mean the difference between effective and poor control of the diseases for which the patient is seeking care.

To illustrate the point, Dr. Hightower used hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a disease that appears to be on the rise among adolescents, as an example of why patient circumstances matter and should be considered. A complex disorder that is more prevalent in resource-poor communities, HS is difficult to control, often requiring extended periods of treatment with medications that can involve complex dosing or regular infusions.

“There is a need for medical providers to help the patient plan for this chronic illness,” said Dr. Hightower, referring to the importance of close follow-up. In adolescents, HS can be sufficiently disruptive from both the physical and psychological perspective that poor control can “derail future aspirations” by complicating educational endeavors and social interactions.

Dr. Hightower acknowledged that simply documenting housing insecurity or other issues does not solve these problems, but he does believe that developing a sensitivity to these obstacles to health care is a first step. It is a process that should permeate into medical training, health care research, and strategies to improve outcomes.

“The connections between fair housing and clinical practice may appear tenuous and inconsequential to the care provided by medical specialists,” Dr. Hightower said, but he emphasized that there are clear consequences when these factors contribute to inadequate control of such diseases as HS. As a source of missed appointments and disjointed care, an unstable home life can be an important barrier to disease control – and because of scarring nodules, fistulae, pain, school absences, and social isolation, complications can be dire.

Solutions to insecure housing are not typically available to an individual clinician, but the awareness that this can be a factor can help both physicians and patients begin to think about the role this plays in impairing recovery and what solutions might be found to modify the impact. Awareness not just among individual clinicians but a broader consortium of those working to improve health care outcomes is needed to “challenge the way we are doing medicine,” he said.

While conversations about the social determinants of health, including access to resources within patients’ neighborhoods, schools, and environment, can demonstrate concern about how to address obstacles, it can also be part of a reorientation to think beyond treatment for the underlying pathology alone. Eliciting trust and emphasizing the importance of environmental barriers to adequate care can be positive steps on the path to solutions.


 

Participatory action research

Relevant to this orientation, Dr. Hightower spoke about participatory action research (PAR), which provides a framework for patients to participate in the planning of clinical studies to effect change, not just serve as subjects in these studies.

The assumption of PAR is that “all people have valuable knowledge about their lives and experiences,” Dr. Hightower said. From this assumption, individuals who have been historically marginalized by race, income, or other factors can help define the problems from the patient’s perspective and, from there, create studies to seek solutions.

PAR is consistent with a patient-centered approach to medical care, which Dr. Hightower called “the future of medicine.” It involves a big-picture approach to look beyond disease pathology and symptoms to factors that might be creating susceptibility to disease and undermining health care.

Organized medicine alone cannot solve the cause of social inequities leading to disparate risks for disease and risks of inadequate health care, but Dr. Hightower argued that these inequities should not be ignored. He believes medical trainees should learn how to elicit information about the barriers to adequate health care and be aware of solutions, such as fair housing policies.

While he believes that PAR is an example of a pathway to problem solving, he suggested that a comprehensive approach requires an effective method of communication between providers and patients that would lead to a collaborative and mutually reinforcing approach.

“How do we ensure that individuals from communities most impacted by health disparities are treated fairly and empowered to address these disparities?” Dr. Hightower asked. He said that this is the direction of his own research and the issues that inhibit adequate treatment of many dermatologic diseases, as well as other types of disease, in childhood.

Craig Burkhart, MD, director of a private pediatric and adolescent dermatology practice in Cary, N.C., said that Dr. Hightower’s message is relevant. The value of considering and addressing the psychological well-being of patients of any age is not a new concept, but he acknowledged that he, for one, has not routinely inquired about obstacles to follow-up care if there is a signal that this might be an issue.

“As dermatologists, we focus on the acute complaints. We want to make the patient better,” said Dr. Burkhart, who moderated the session in which Dr. Hightower spoke. He agreed with Dr. Hightower that environmental factors make a difference on the road to recovery for a patient, and his presentation was a good reminder, he said, to consider the patient’s circumstances when response to treatment is inadequate, particularly in chronic diseases like HS, for which comprehensive care and close follow-up are needed.

Dr. Hightower and Dr. Burkhart report no potential conflicts of interest.

Clinicians are using dupilumab off label to treat a wider range of allergic conditions in adults and children.

The drug, marketed as Dupixent, is currently approved in the United States to treat atopic dermatitis, asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, eosinophilic esophagitis, and prurigo nodularis in adults. Dupilumab is also approved to treat eosinophilic esophagitis in patients aged 12 years and older and atopic dermatitis and asthma in some patients as young as age 6 months.

As the roster of approved and off-label indications grows, skin specialists said, pediatricians and other primary care providers should become familiar with the drug – given the increasing likelihood that their patients may be taking the medication.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration first approved dupilumab in 2017 for eczema and has continued to add new treatment indications, the most recent being for prurigo nodularis, in 2022. Sanofi, which markets the drug with Regeneron, announced in April 2022 that some 430,000 patients worldwide were taking the drug – a figure it hoped to raise by 1.5 million by 2025.
 

A well-tolerated – if expensive – drug

Dupilumab, an interleukin-4 (IL-4) receptor alpha-antagonist biologic, blocks both IL-4 and IL-13 signaling, Marlys Fassett, MD, PhD, associate professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco, told this news organization.

Dr. Fassett said she prescribes the drug off label for chronic idiopathic urticaria, including in older patients, and finds that the side effects in older patients are similar to those in younger people. The medication costs $36,000 per year, although some patients can get it more cheaply.

“Dupixent is a super-safe drug because it doesn’t immunosuppress any other part of the immune system, so you still have good antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal immunity,” she added. “That makes perfect sense as a biological mechanism, and it’s been found safe in clinical trials.”

Case reports of potential adverse reactions to dupilumab have included ocular surface disease, lichen planus, and rash on the face and neck.

“We’re still learning about complications and are watching patients carefully,” said Marissa J. Perman, MD, section chief of dermatology at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Many people with atopic dermatitis also have other allergic conditions, such as contact dermatitis, asthma, prurigo nodularis, allergic rhinitis, and seasonal allergies. Each of these conditions has a pathway that depends on IL-4 receptors, Dr. Fassett said.

“It’s amazing how many conditions Dupixent improves. Sometimes we prescribe on-label Dupixent for atopic dermatitis, and inadvertently, the drug also improves that patient’s other, off-label conditions,” Dr. Fassett said. “I think that’s the best evidence that Dupixent works in these off-label cases.”

Lindsay C. Strowd, MD, associate professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, N.C., said she uses off-label dupilumab to treat bullous pemphigoid and intense pruritus of unknown etiology.

“And several times I have treated drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, a rare adverse drug reaction that causes a rash and eosinophilia,” Dr. Strowd added.

Tissa Hata, MD, professor of medicine and clinical service chief at the University of California, San Diego, mainly treats elderly patients. She uses dupilumab to treat bullous pemphigoid and chronic pruritus. “There have been reports of using Dupixent to treat adult alopecia areata, chronic urticaria, localized scleroderma, and even keloids,” she told this news organization.

As a pediatric dermatologist, Dr. Perman treats children with atopic dermatitis as young as 3 months of age. She also uses dupilumab for alopecia areata, graft vs. host disease, and pruritus not otherwise specified.

Conjunctivitis and facial redness are two side effects Dr. Fassett sometimes sees with dupilumab. They occur similarly with all conditions and in all age groups. “We don’t know why they occur, and we don’t always know how to alleviate them,” she said. “So a small number of patients stop using Dupixent because they can’t tolerate those two side effects.

“We’re not worried about infection risk,” Dr. Fassett said. “Your patients may have heard of dupilumab as an immunosuppressant, but its immunosuppression is very focused. You can reassure them that they’re not at increased risk for viral or bacterial infections when they’re on this drug.”

“I don’t think there are any different safety signals to watch for with on-label vs. off-label Dupixent use,” Dr. Strowd added. “In general, the medicine is very safe.”

Dr. Hata said she is impressed with dupilumab’s safety in her elderly patients. All her patients older than 85 years who have taken the drug for bullous pemphigoid have tolerated it well, she said.

“Dupixent seems to be a safe alternative for elderly patients with pruritus because they often cannot tolerate sedating antihistamines due to the risk of falling,” Dr. Hata said. “And UV therapy may be difficult for elderly patients due to problems with transport.”

Although some of Dr. Hata’s elderly patients with atopic dermatitis have discontinued use of the drug after developing conjunctivitis, none taking the drug off label have discontinued it because of side effects, she noted.

“Dupixent manages the condition, but it is not a cure,” Dr. Fassett noted. “Based on the current data, we think it’s safe and effective to take long term, potentially for life.”

Making injections less bothersome

Dupilumab is injected subcutaneously from a single-dose prefilled syringe or a prefilled pen (syringe hidden in an opaque sheath), typically in the thigh, arm, abdomen, or buttocks. According to Sanofi and Regeneron, patients receive dupilumab injections every 2 to 4 weeks in doses based on their age and weight.

“The medication is somewhat viscous, so taking the syringe or pen out of the refrigerator ahead of time to warm it up can make the experience less painful,” Dr. Strowd advised. “For pediatric patients, I sometimes prescribe topical lidocaine applied 30 minutes before injection.”

Dr. Hata suggested icing the skin prior to injecting or distracting the patient by tapping a different area of the skin.

For her pediatric patients, Dr. Perman said she uses “lots of distraction, EMLA cream, and having one person hold the child while a second person injects.”

Clinic and pharmacy staff may show patients how to inject properly, Dr. Fassett added; and the product website provides injection tutorials.
 

Off-label dupixent can be expensive, difficult to obtain

The list price per injection, regardless of dose, is around $1,800. But according to the company’s website, most patients have health insurance or qualify for other assistance, so “very few patients pay the list price.”

Even so, “due to cost and insurance coverage hurdles, obtaining Dupixent for off-label use can be difficult,” Dr. Strowd said.

“In academic medicine, we can obtain drugs for our patients that community doctors may not get approval for,” Dr. Fassett added. “Community doctors can use information in the medical literature and in news articles to press insurance companies to spend money to provide their patients with Dupixent.”

The experts who commented have disclosed no relevant financial relationships.

A version of this article appeared on Medscape.com.

Clinicians are using dupilumab off label to treat a wider range of allergic conditions in adults and children.

The drug, marketed as Dupixent, is currently approved in the United States to treat atopic dermatitis, asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, eosinophilic esophagitis, and prurigo nodularis in adults. Dupilumab is also approved to treat eosinophilic esophagitis in patients aged 12 years and older and atopic dermatitis and asthma in some patients as young as age 6 months.

As the roster of approved and off-label indications grows, skin specialists said, pediatricians and other primary care providers should become familiar with the drug – given the increasing likelihood that their patients may be taking the medication.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration first approved dupilumab in 2017 for eczema and has continued to add new treatment indications, the most recent being for prurigo nodularis, in 2022. Sanofi, which markets the drug with Regeneron, announced in April 2022 that some 430,000 patients worldwide were taking the drug – a figure it hoped to raise by 1.5 million by 2025.
 

A well-tolerated – if expensive – drug

Dupilumab, an interleukin-4 (IL-4) receptor alpha-antagonist biologic, blocks both IL-4 and IL-13 signaling, Marlys Fassett, MD, PhD, associate professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco, told this news organization.

Dr. Fassett said she prescribes the drug off label for chronic idiopathic urticaria, including in older patients, and finds that the side effects in older patients are similar to those in younger people. The medication costs $36,000 per year, although some patients can get it more cheaply.

“Dupixent is a super-safe drug because it doesn’t immunosuppress any other part of the immune system, so you still have good antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal immunity,” she added. “That makes perfect sense as a biological mechanism, and it’s been found safe in clinical trials.”

Case reports of potential adverse reactions to dupilumab have included ocular surface disease, lichen planus, and rash on the face and neck.

“We’re still learning about complications and are watching patients carefully,” said Marissa J. Perman, MD, section chief of dermatology at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Many people with atopic dermatitis also have other allergic conditions, such as contact dermatitis, asthma, prurigo nodularis, allergic rhinitis, and seasonal allergies. Each of these conditions has a pathway that depends on IL-4 receptors, Dr. Fassett said.

“It’s amazing how many conditions Dupixent improves. Sometimes we prescribe on-label Dupixent for atopic dermatitis, and inadvertently, the drug also improves that patient’s other, off-label conditions,” Dr. Fassett said. “I think that’s the best evidence that Dupixent works in these off-label cases.”

Lindsay C. Strowd, MD, associate professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, N.C., said she uses off-label dupilumab to treat bullous pemphigoid and intense pruritus of unknown etiology.

“And several times I have treated drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, a rare adverse drug reaction that causes a rash and eosinophilia,” Dr. Strowd added.

Tissa Hata, MD, professor of medicine and clinical service chief at the University of California, San Diego, mainly treats elderly patients. She uses dupilumab to treat bullous pemphigoid and chronic pruritus. “There have been reports of using Dupixent to treat adult alopecia areata, chronic urticaria, localized scleroderma, and even keloids,” she told this news organization.

As a pediatric dermatologist, Dr. Perman treats children with atopic dermatitis as young as 3 months of age. She also uses dupilumab for alopecia areata, graft vs. host disease, and pruritus not otherwise specified.

Conjunctivitis and facial redness are two side effects Dr. Fassett sometimes sees with dupilumab. They occur similarly with all conditions and in all age groups. “We don’t know why they occur, and we don’t always know how to alleviate them,” she said. “So a small number of patients stop using Dupixent because they can’t tolerate those two side effects.

“We’re not worried about infection risk,” Dr. Fassett said. “Your patients may have heard of dupilumab as an immunosuppressant, but its immunosuppression is very focused. You can reassure them that they’re not at increased risk for viral or bacterial infections when they’re on this drug.”

“I don’t think there are any different safety signals to watch for with on-label vs. off-label Dupixent use,” Dr. Strowd added. “In general, the medicine is very safe.”

Dr. Hata said she is impressed with dupilumab’s safety in her elderly patients. All her patients older than 85 years who have taken the drug for bullous pemphigoid have tolerated it well, she said.

“Dupixent seems to be a safe alternative for elderly patients with pruritus because they often cannot tolerate sedating antihistamines due to the risk of falling,” Dr. Hata said. “And UV therapy may be difficult for elderly patients due to problems with transport.”

Although some of Dr. Hata’s elderly patients with atopic dermatitis have discontinued use of the drug after developing conjunctivitis, none taking the drug off label have discontinued it because of side effects, she noted.

“Dupixent manages the condition, but it is not a cure,” Dr. Fassett noted. “Based on the current data, we think it’s safe and effective to take long term, potentially for life.”

Making injections less bothersome

Dupilumab is injected subcutaneously from a single-dose prefilled syringe or a prefilled pen (syringe hidden in an opaque sheath), typically in the thigh, arm, abdomen, or buttocks. According to Sanofi and Regeneron, patients receive dupilumab injections every 2 to 4 weeks in doses based on their age and weight.

“The medication is somewhat viscous, so taking the syringe or pen out of the refrigerator ahead of time to warm it up can make the experience less painful,” Dr. Strowd advised. “For pediatric patients, I sometimes prescribe topical lidocaine applied 30 minutes before injection.”

Dr. Hata suggested icing the skin prior to injecting or distracting the patient by tapping a different area of the skin.

For her pediatric patients, Dr. Perman said she uses “lots of distraction, EMLA cream, and having one person hold the child while a second person injects.”

Clinic and pharmacy staff may show patients how to inject properly, Dr. Fassett added; and the product website provides injection tutorials.
 

Off-label dupixent can be expensive, difficult to obtain

The list price per injection, regardless of dose, is around $1,800. But according to the company’s website, most patients have health insurance or qualify for other assistance, so “very few patients pay the list price.”

Even so, “due to cost and insurance coverage hurdles, obtaining Dupixent for off-label use can be difficult,” Dr. Strowd said.

“In academic medicine, we can obtain drugs for our patients that community doctors may not get approval for,” Dr. Fassett added. “Community doctors can use information in the medical literature and in news articles to press insurance companies to spend money to provide their patients with Dupixent.”

The experts who commented have disclosed no relevant financial relationships.

A version of this article appeared on Medscape.com.

Clinicians are using dupilumab off label to treat a wider range of allergic conditions in adults and children.

The drug, marketed as Dupixent, is currently approved in the United States to treat atopic dermatitis, asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, eosinophilic esophagitis, and prurigo nodularis in adults. Dupilumab is also approved to treat eosinophilic esophagitis in patients aged 12 years and older and atopic dermatitis and asthma in some patients as young as age 6 months.

As the roster of approved and off-label indications grows, skin specialists said, pediatricians and other primary care providers should become familiar with the drug – given the increasing likelihood that their patients may be taking the medication.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration first approved dupilumab in 2017 for eczema and has continued to add new treatment indications, the most recent being for prurigo nodularis, in 2022. Sanofi, which markets the drug with Regeneron, announced in April 2022 that some 430,000 patients worldwide were taking the drug – a figure it hoped to raise by 1.5 million by 2025.
 

A well-tolerated – if expensive – drug

Dupilumab, an interleukin-4 (IL-4) receptor alpha-antagonist biologic, blocks both IL-4 and IL-13 signaling, Marlys Fassett, MD, PhD, associate professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco, told this news organization.

Dr. Fassett said she prescribes the drug off label for chronic idiopathic urticaria, including in older patients, and finds that the side effects in older patients are similar to those in younger people. The medication costs $36,000 per year, although some patients can get it more cheaply.

“Dupixent is a super-safe drug because it doesn’t immunosuppress any other part of the immune system, so you still have good antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal immunity,” she added. “That makes perfect sense as a biological mechanism, and it’s been found safe in clinical trials.”

Case reports of potential adverse reactions to dupilumab have included ocular surface disease, lichen planus, and rash on the face and neck.

“We’re still learning about complications and are watching patients carefully,” said Marissa J. Perman, MD, section chief of dermatology at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Many people with atopic dermatitis also have other allergic conditions, such as contact dermatitis, asthma, prurigo nodularis, allergic rhinitis, and seasonal allergies. Each of these conditions has a pathway that depends on IL-4 receptors, Dr. Fassett said.

“It’s amazing how many conditions Dupixent improves. Sometimes we prescribe on-label Dupixent for atopic dermatitis, and inadvertently, the drug also improves that patient’s other, off-label conditions,” Dr. Fassett said. “I think that’s the best evidence that Dupixent works in these off-label cases.”

Lindsay C. Strowd, MD, associate professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, N.C., said she uses off-label dupilumab to treat bullous pemphigoid and intense pruritus of unknown etiology.

“And several times I have treated drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, a rare adverse drug reaction that causes a rash and eosinophilia,” Dr. Strowd added.

Tissa Hata, MD, professor of medicine and clinical service chief at the University of California, San Diego, mainly treats elderly patients. She uses dupilumab to treat bullous pemphigoid and chronic pruritus. “There have been reports of using Dupixent to treat adult alopecia areata, chronic urticaria, localized scleroderma, and even keloids,” she told this news organization.

As a pediatric dermatologist, Dr. Perman treats children with atopic dermatitis as young as 3 months of age. She also uses dupilumab for alopecia areata, graft vs. host disease, and pruritus not otherwise specified.

Conjunctivitis and facial redness are two side effects Dr. Fassett sometimes sees with dupilumab. They occur similarly with all conditions and in all age groups. “We don’t know why they occur, and we don’t always know how to alleviate them,” she said. “So a small number of patients stop using Dupixent because they can’t tolerate those two side effects.

“We’re not worried about infection risk,” Dr. Fassett said. “Your patients may have heard of dupilumab as an immunosuppressant, but its immunosuppression is very focused. You can reassure them that they’re not at increased risk for viral or bacterial infections when they’re on this drug.”

“I don’t think there are any different safety signals to watch for with on-label vs. off-label Dupixent use,” Dr. Strowd added. “In general, the medicine is very safe.”

Dr. Hata said she is impressed with dupilumab’s safety in her elderly patients. All her patients older than 85 years who have taken the drug for bullous pemphigoid have tolerated it well, she said.

“Dupixent seems to be a safe alternative for elderly patients with pruritus because they often cannot tolerate sedating antihistamines due to the risk of falling,” Dr. Hata said. “And UV therapy may be difficult for elderly patients due to problems with transport.”

Although some of Dr. Hata’s elderly patients with atopic dermatitis have discontinued use of the drug after developing conjunctivitis, none taking the drug off label have discontinued it because of side effects, she noted.

“Dupixent manages the condition, but it is not a cure,” Dr. Fassett noted. “Based on the current data, we think it’s safe and effective to take long term, potentially for life.”

Making injections less bothersome

Dupilumab is injected subcutaneously from a single-dose prefilled syringe or a prefilled pen (syringe hidden in an opaque sheath), typically in the thigh, arm, abdomen, or buttocks. According to Sanofi and Regeneron, patients receive dupilumab injections every 2 to 4 weeks in doses based on their age and weight.

“The medication is somewhat viscous, so taking the syringe or pen out of the refrigerator ahead of time to warm it up can make the experience less painful,” Dr. Strowd advised. “For pediatric patients, I sometimes prescribe topical lidocaine applied 30 minutes before injection.”

Dr. Hata suggested icing the skin prior to injecting or distracting the patient by tapping a different area of the skin.

For her pediatric patients, Dr. Perman said she uses “lots of distraction, EMLA cream, and having one person hold the child while a second person injects.”

Clinic and pharmacy staff may show patients how to inject properly, Dr. Fassett added; and the product website provides injection tutorials.
 

Off-label dupixent can be expensive, difficult to obtain

The list price per injection, regardless of dose, is around $1,800. But according to the company’s website, most patients have health insurance or qualify for other assistance, so “very few patients pay the list price.”

Even so, “due to cost and insurance coverage hurdles, obtaining Dupixent for off-label use can be difficult,” Dr. Strowd said.

“In academic medicine, we can obtain drugs for our patients that community doctors may not get approval for,” Dr. Fassett added. “Community doctors can use information in the medical literature and in news articles to press insurance companies to spend money to provide their patients with Dupixent.”

The experts who commented have disclosed no relevant financial relationships.

A version of this article appeared on Medscape.com.

The European Medicines Agency has validated the marketing authorization application for delgocitinib cream, for the treatment of adults with chronic moderate to severe hand eczema, which marks the beginning of the review process for the treatment by the EMA’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use.

Delgocitinib is an investigational topical pan–Janus kinase inhibitor that inhibits activation of the JAK-STAT pathway.

The development follows results reported from two phase 3 clinical trials known as DELTA 1 and DELTA 2, which evaluated the safety and efficacy of delgocitinib cream applications twice per day compared with a vehicle cream in adults with mild to severe chronic hand eczema. Results of DELTA 1 were presented at the 2023 annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology. A multisite, open-label extension trial known as DELTA 3 is still in progress.

According to a press release from LEO Pharma, which is developing the product, the efficacy and safety of delgocitinib cream have not been evaluated by any regulatory authority. In 2020, the drug was granted fast-track designation by the Food and Drug Administration for the potential treatment of adults with moderate to severe chronic hand eczema. There are currently no treatment options available in the United States specifically approved for treating the condition.



 

The European Medicines Agency has validated the marketing authorization application for delgocitinib cream, for the treatment of adults with chronic moderate to severe hand eczema, which marks the beginning of the review process for the treatment by the EMA’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use.

Delgocitinib is an investigational topical pan–Janus kinase inhibitor that inhibits activation of the JAK-STAT pathway.

The development follows results reported from two phase 3 clinical trials known as DELTA 1 and DELTA 2, which evaluated the safety and efficacy of delgocitinib cream applications twice per day compared with a vehicle cream in adults with mild to severe chronic hand eczema. Results of DELTA 1 were presented at the 2023 annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology. A multisite, open-label extension trial known as DELTA 3 is still in progress.

According to a press release from LEO Pharma, which is developing the product, the efficacy and safety of delgocitinib cream have not been evaluated by any regulatory authority. In 2020, the drug was granted fast-track designation by the Food and Drug Administration for the potential treatment of adults with moderate to severe chronic hand eczema. There are currently no treatment options available in the United States specifically approved for treating the condition.



 

The European Medicines Agency has validated the marketing authorization application for delgocitinib cream, for the treatment of adults with chronic moderate to severe hand eczema, which marks the beginning of the review process for the treatment by the EMA’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use.

Delgocitinib is an investigational topical pan–Janus kinase inhibitor that inhibits activation of the JAK-STAT pathway.

The development follows results reported from two phase 3 clinical trials known as DELTA 1 and DELTA 2, which evaluated the safety and efficacy of delgocitinib cream applications twice per day compared with a vehicle cream in adults with mild to severe chronic hand eczema. Results of DELTA 1 were presented at the 2023 annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology. A multisite, open-label extension trial known as DELTA 3 is still in progress.

According to a press release from LEO Pharma, which is developing the product, the efficacy and safety of delgocitinib cream have not been evaluated by any regulatory authority. In 2020, the drug was granted fast-track designation by the Food and Drug Administration for the potential treatment of adults with moderate to severe chronic hand eczema. There are currently no treatment options available in the United States specifically approved for treating the condition.



 

Key clinical point: Serum levels of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) are significantly elevated in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), with the levels being significantly higher in adults than in children and increasing significantly corresponding to the severity of AD.

Major finding: Patients with AD vs control individuals had significantly higher serum levels of TSLP (standardized mean difference [SMD] 2.21; P < .001). Serum TSLP levels were significantly higher in adults vs children with AD (P = .02) and had a significant positive association with AD severity (mild: SMD 1.15; P = .025; moderate: SMD 2.48; P = .024; severe: SMD 8.28; P = .000002).

Study details: The data come from a meta-analysis of 14 studies involving 1032 patients with AD and 416 control individuals without AD.

Disclosures: This study was funded by the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Source: García-Reyes MM et al. Serum thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) levels in atopic dermatitis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Exp Med. 2023 (Jul 29). doi: 10.1007/s10238-023-01147-5

Key clinical point: Serum levels of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) are significantly elevated in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), with the levels being significantly higher in adults than in children and increasing significantly corresponding to the severity of AD.

Major finding: Patients with AD vs control individuals had significantly higher serum levels of TSLP (standardized mean difference [SMD] 2.21; P < .001). Serum TSLP levels were significantly higher in adults vs children with AD (P = .02) and had a significant positive association with AD severity (mild: SMD 1.15; P = .025; moderate: SMD 2.48; P = .024; severe: SMD 8.28; P = .000002).

Study details: The data come from a meta-analysis of 14 studies involving 1032 patients with AD and 416 control individuals without AD.

Disclosures: This study was funded by the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Source: García-Reyes MM et al. Serum thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) levels in atopic dermatitis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Exp Med. 2023 (Jul 29). doi: 10.1007/s10238-023-01147-5

Key clinical point: Serum levels of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) are significantly elevated in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), with the levels being significantly higher in adults than in children and increasing significantly corresponding to the severity of AD.

Major finding: Patients with AD vs control individuals had significantly higher serum levels of TSLP (standardized mean difference [SMD] 2.21; P < .001). Serum TSLP levels were significantly higher in adults vs children with AD (P = .02) and had a significant positive association with AD severity (mild: SMD 1.15; P = .025; moderate: SMD 2.48; P = .024; severe: SMD 8.28; P = .000002).

Study details: The data come from a meta-analysis of 14 studies involving 1032 patients with AD and 416 control individuals without AD.

Disclosures: This study was funded by the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Source: García-Reyes MM et al. Serum thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) levels in atopic dermatitis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Exp Med. 2023 (Jul 29). doi: 10.1007/s10238-023-01147-5

Key clinical point: Dupilumab demonstrates favorable efficacy and manageable safety in pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), with greater improvements in clinical signs observed with an increase in the treatment duration.

Major finding: The overall pooled Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) 75 response rate was 57.4% (95% CI 48.1%-66.2%), whereas an Investigator's Global Assessment score of 0 or 1 was achieved by 35.2% (29.3%-41.5%) of patients. EASI 75 response rates were 26.8% (95% CI 20.7%-33.9%) and 84.9% (95% CI 79.6%-89.0%) after 2-8 weeks and 32-52 weeks of treatment, respectively. Treatment-emergent adverse events were mostly mild-to-moderate in severity.

Study details: This meta-analysis included 18 studies (7 clinical and 11 observational) involving 1275 children and adolescents with AD.

Disclosures: This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Source: Xu Y et al. Efficacy and safety profile of dupilumab for the treatment of atopic dermatitis in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pediatr Dermatol. 2023 (Aug 2). doi: 10.1111/pde.15398

Key clinical point: Dupilumab demonstrates favorable efficacy and manageable safety in pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), with greater improvements in clinical signs observed with an increase in the treatment duration.

Major finding: The overall pooled Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) 75 response rate was 57.4% (95% CI 48.1%-66.2%), whereas an Investigator's Global Assessment score of 0 or 1 was achieved by 35.2% (29.3%-41.5%) of patients. EASI 75 response rates were 26.8% (95% CI 20.7%-33.9%) and 84.9% (95% CI 79.6%-89.0%) after 2-8 weeks and 32-52 weeks of treatment, respectively. Treatment-emergent adverse events were mostly mild-to-moderate in severity.

Study details: This meta-analysis included 18 studies (7 clinical and 11 observational) involving 1275 children and adolescents with AD.

Disclosures: This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Source: Xu Y et al. Efficacy and safety profile of dupilumab for the treatment of atopic dermatitis in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pediatr Dermatol. 2023 (Aug 2). doi: 10.1111/pde.15398

Key clinical point: Dupilumab demonstrates favorable efficacy and manageable safety in pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), with greater improvements in clinical signs observed with an increase in the treatment duration.

Major finding: The overall pooled Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) 75 response rate was 57.4% (95% CI 48.1%-66.2%), whereas an Investigator's Global Assessment score of 0 or 1 was achieved by 35.2% (29.3%-41.5%) of patients. EASI 75 response rates were 26.8% (95% CI 20.7%-33.9%) and 84.9% (95% CI 79.6%-89.0%) after 2-8 weeks and 32-52 weeks of treatment, respectively. Treatment-emergent adverse events were mostly mild-to-moderate in severity.

Study details: This meta-analysis included 18 studies (7 clinical and 11 observational) involving 1275 children and adolescents with AD.

Disclosures: This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Source: Xu Y et al. Efficacy and safety profile of dupilumab for the treatment of atopic dermatitis in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pediatr Dermatol. 2023 (Aug 2). doi: 10.1111/pde.15398

Key clinical point: Reduction in dupilumab dose to every 3 or 4 weeks does not decrease its efficacy in patients with persistently-controlled atopic dermatitis (AD), with clinical outcome measures remaining stable over time.

Major finding: After 144 weeks, similar to patients receiving 300 mg dupilumab every 2 weeks, those receiving 300 mg dupilumab every 3 and 4 weeks had significantly decreased mean Eczema Area and Severity Index, Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis, Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale, and Sleep Numerical Rating Scale scores (all P < .05).

Study details: This multicenter retrospective observational study included 54 patients age ≥ 16 years with controlled moderate-to-severe AD treated with dupilumab for ≥ 1 year who were assigned to receive 300 mg dupilumab every 2 weeks (n = 27), 3 weeks (n = 17), or 4 weeks (n = 10).

Disclosures: This study received no specific funding from any sources. The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Source: Sánchez-García V et al. Evaluation of dupilumab dosing regimen in patients with persistently controlled atopic dermatitis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2023 (Jul 17). doi: 10.1111/jdv.19348

Key clinical point: Reduction in dupilumab dose to every 3 or 4 weeks does not decrease its efficacy in patients with persistently-controlled atopic dermatitis (AD), with clinical outcome measures remaining stable over time.

Major finding: After 144 weeks, similar to patients receiving 300 mg dupilumab every 2 weeks, those receiving 300 mg dupilumab every 3 and 4 weeks had significantly decreased mean Eczema Area and Severity Index, Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis, Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale, and Sleep Numerical Rating Scale scores (all P < .05).

Study details: This multicenter retrospective observational study included 54 patients age ≥ 16 years with controlled moderate-to-severe AD treated with dupilumab for ≥ 1 year who were assigned to receive 300 mg dupilumab every 2 weeks (n = 27), 3 weeks (n = 17), or 4 weeks (n = 10).

Disclosures: This study received no specific funding from any sources. The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Source: Sánchez-García V et al. Evaluation of dupilumab dosing regimen in patients with persistently controlled atopic dermatitis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2023 (Jul 17). doi: 10.1111/jdv.19348

Key clinical point: Reduction in dupilumab dose to every 3 or 4 weeks does not decrease its efficacy in patients with persistently-controlled atopic dermatitis (AD), with clinical outcome measures remaining stable over time.

Major finding: After 144 weeks, similar to patients receiving 300 mg dupilumab every 2 weeks, those receiving 300 mg dupilumab every 3 and 4 weeks had significantly decreased mean Eczema Area and Severity Index, Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis, Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale, and Sleep Numerical Rating Scale scores (all P < .05).

Study details: This multicenter retrospective observational study included 54 patients age ≥ 16 years with controlled moderate-to-severe AD treated with dupilumab for ≥ 1 year who were assigned to receive 300 mg dupilumab every 2 weeks (n = 27), 3 weeks (n = 17), or 4 weeks (n = 10).

Disclosures: This study received no specific funding from any sources. The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

Source: Sánchez-García V et al. Evaluation of dupilumab dosing regimen in patients with persistently controlled atopic dermatitis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2023 (Jul 17). doi: 10.1111/jdv.19348

Key clinical point: Dupilumab + low-potency topical corticosteroids (TCS) led to rapid and sustained improvement in disease severity in all anatomical regions (head and neck, trunk, upper extremities, and lower extremities) in children with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD).

Major finding: The dupilumab + TCS vs placebo + TCS group had a significant improvement in least-squares mean Eczema Area and Severity Index scores in all 4 anatomical regions by week 2 (all P < .0001) that sustained throughout the 16-week treatment.

Study details: This post hoc analysis of the LIBERTY AD PRESCHOOL trial included 162 children (age, 6 months-5 years) with moderate-to-severe AD who were randomly assigned to receive dupilumab + low-potency TCS or placebo + low-potency TCS every 4 weeks.

Disclosures: This study was funded by Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Five authors declared being employees or stockholders of Sanofi/Regeneron. The rest declared serving as consultants, investigators, speakers, or advisory board members for and receiving grants or personal fees from various sources, including Sanofi and Regeneron.

Source: Siegfried EC et al. Dupilumab treatment leads to rapid and consistent improvement of atopic dermatitis in all anatomical regions in patients aged 6 months to 5 years. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2023 (Jul 22). doi: 10.1007/s13555-023-00960-w

Key clinical point: Dupilumab + low-potency topical corticosteroids (TCS) led to rapid and sustained improvement in disease severity in all anatomical regions (head and neck, trunk, upper extremities, and lower extremities) in children with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD).

Major finding: The dupilumab + TCS vs placebo + TCS group had a significant improvement in least-squares mean Eczema Area and Severity Index scores in all 4 anatomical regions by week 2 (all P < .0001) that sustained throughout the 16-week treatment.

Study details: This post hoc analysis of the LIBERTY AD PRESCHOOL trial included 162 children (age, 6 months-5 years) with moderate-to-severe AD who were randomly assigned to receive dupilumab + low-potency TCS or placebo + low-potency TCS every 4 weeks.

Disclosures: This study was funded by Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Five authors declared being employees or stockholders of Sanofi/Regeneron. The rest declared serving as consultants, investigators, speakers, or advisory board members for and receiving grants or personal fees from various sources, including Sanofi and Regeneron.

Source: Siegfried EC et al. Dupilumab treatment leads to rapid and consistent improvement of atopic dermatitis in all anatomical regions in patients aged 6 months to 5 years. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2023 (Jul 22). doi: 10.1007/s13555-023-00960-w

Key clinical point: Dupilumab + low-potency topical corticosteroids (TCS) led to rapid and sustained improvement in disease severity in all anatomical regions (head and neck, trunk, upper extremities, and lower extremities) in children with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD).

Major finding: The dupilumab + TCS vs placebo + TCS group had a significant improvement in least-squares mean Eczema Area and Severity Index scores in all 4 anatomical regions by week 2 (all P < .0001) that sustained throughout the 16-week treatment.

Study details: This post hoc analysis of the LIBERTY AD PRESCHOOL trial included 162 children (age, 6 months-5 years) with moderate-to-severe AD who were randomly assigned to receive dupilumab + low-potency TCS or placebo + low-potency TCS every 4 weeks.

Disclosures: This study was funded by Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Five authors declared being employees or stockholders of Sanofi/Regeneron. The rest declared serving as consultants, investigators, speakers, or advisory board members for and receiving grants or personal fees from various sources, including Sanofi and Regeneron.

Source: Siegfried EC et al. Dupilumab treatment leads to rapid and consistent improvement of atopic dermatitis in all anatomical regions in patients aged 6 months to 5 years. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2023 (Jul 22). doi: 10.1007/s13555-023-00960-w