Lawrence Eichenfield, MD, breaks down new AAD pediatric atopic dermatitis guidelines, covering prevention strategies and linked comorbidities.
Lawrence Eichenfield, MD, chief of pediatric and adolescent
In his session, he highlighted the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)'s first pediatric-specific
Eichenfield explained that the session addressed rapidly evolving treatment options across the age spectrum of patients with atopic dermatitis, including changes in both topical and systemic therapies. His portion of the presentation focused on pediatric atopic dermatitis, covering updates to topical treatment as well as emerging systemic options relevant to younger patients, reflecting how quickly the therapeutic landscape continues to shift year over year.
A central highlight was the American Academy of Dermatology's release of its first pediatric atopic dermatitis guidelines, published across two papers. One paper addressed disease prevention and associated comorbidities. Eichenfield noted that evidence remains mixed on whether moisturizers can help prevent atopic dermatitis, resulting in a conditional recommendation.
He referenced a large study led by Eric Simpson, MD, MCR, along with a separate study conducted in Ireland, both suggesting that early moisturizer use may reduce atopic dermatitis risk, though the benefit appeared less pronounced among infants with a family history of the disease. Eichenfield added that other proposed prevention strategies, including water softener use and dust mite avoidance, have not been shown to be effective in reducing atopic dermatitis risk.
Eichenfield also reviewed comorbidities associated with atopic dermatitis outlined in the new guidelines. He noted a strong association between atopic dermatitis and allergic conditions, as well as certain autoimmune diseases, including alopecia areata.
He said the evidence connecting atopic dermatitis to bone health remains uncertain in the pediatric population, signaling an area that may warrant further research as pediatric atopic dermatitis guidelines continue to evolve.
Disclosures: Eichenfield previously reported receiving personal fees from Pfizer Inc; grant funding from AbbVie, Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Bausch + Lomb, Castle Biosciences, Dermavant Sciences Inc, Galderma SA, Pfizer Inc, Regeneron, and Sanofi SA and consulting for ASLAN Pharmaceuticals, AbbVie, Almirall, SA, Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc, Dermavant Sciences Inc, Galderma SA, Incyte Corporation, LEO Pharma A/S, Eli Lilly and Company, Ortho Dermatologics, Pfizer Inc, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc, Sanofi SA, and UCB; and serving on the board of directors of Forté Pharma.
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