Treatment of AD with Topical Therapy

Atopic dermatitis (AD) has a complex pathogenesis that leads to the characteristic itchy, eczematous skin findings. Treatment of AD is aimed at alleviating symptoms, preventing exacerbations and infections, and minimizing long-term risks. Treatment depends on the extent and severity of the AD but almost always includes topical therapies as a first line and often in addition to other treatments. These topicals include a variety of moisturizers and non-pharmacologic preparations, steroids, crisaborole, and calcineurin inhibitors, as well as a topical Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. Each has strengths and weaknesses in terms of efficacy, accessibility, and safety/tolerability. Given the heterogeneity of AD, it is important to be able to call upon a variety of topical therapies to meet individual needs.