Topical Treatments for Patients with Atopic Dermatitis Based on Revised Guidelines

Abstract

　During the treatment of atopic dermatitis, it is important to consider how topical corticosteroids and tacrolimus ointment, which have been demonstrated to consistently and rapidly suppress skin inflammation in atopic dermatitis patients, should be selected and combined. Recent studies have reported that intermittent therapy is effective against flare-ups in patients that are administered corticosteroids or tacrolimus two or three times a week for stabilized atopic dermatitis. In order to treat dry skin with decreased barrier function and prevent recurrent inflammation, it is necessary to apply topical emollients. A recent study demonstrated that the daily application of emollients during the first 32 weeks of life reduced the risk of atopic dermatitis in infants.