Lynne: Recognizing Inflammation and Comorbidities Associated with AD

Target Audience
Primary care physicians; Dermatologists; Pediatric Dermatologists; Nurse Practitioners (NPs); and Physician Assistants (PAs).

Program Overview
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by intense itching and recurrent eczematous lesions. The disease affects up to 20% of children and up to 3% of adults. AD usually starts in childhood, and may represent the cutaneous manifestation of an “atopic march” in which most patients also develop asthma and allergic rhinitis.

AD has a tremendous negative impact on the quality of life of both patients and their families. The disease is associated with several comorbidities, including mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD), hypertension, obesity, infections, osteoporosis, fractures, vitiligo, alopecia areata, visual problems, and dental issues. Patients are more accident-prone and sleep disturbances are common which persist even during periods of remission.

This online curriculum will examine the clinical characteristics, the current understanding of immuno-pathophysiology, and the psychosocial and quality of life impact of AD on patients across age groups. Strategies to individualize treatment for patients with atopic dermatitis will be discussed.

Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, participants should be better able to:

Discuss the role of Th2 inflammation in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD) and implications for management of this condition.
Identify and appropriately manage comorbidities associated with AD to improve their impact on quality of life.
Faculty