Options for Eczema

Many adults with eczema may be missing out on new treatments for the condition, according to a new report.

This new report noted that many adults who develop eczema do not seek medical care and go undiagnosed. Recently approved treatments, these researchers said, could help patients with eczema.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is inflammation of the skin that is marked by red, itchy, scaly patches. Although it is most common in children, eczema is also common in adults. The authors of this report noted that patients with eczema may have trouble sleeping and feel emotional distress because of the condition.

However, recently approved therapies have shown promise for patients with eczema. For instance, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved an ointment to reduce itching, swelling and redness in patients 2 years of age or older with eczema. This treatment is called crisaborole (brand name Eucrisa).

The FDA has also approved an injected biologic treatment called dupilumab (brand name Dupixent). This medication was approved for patients 18 years of age or older with eczema who haven't responded to or cannot take topical treatments.

The authors of this report said they expected even more new treatments for eczema to be approved soon.

If you have eczema, ask your health care provider about the best treatment for you.

This report was published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

Information on report funding sources and potential conflicts of interest was not available at the time of publication.