Agata Woldan-Tambor, Jolanta B. Zawilska

Atopowe zapalenie skóry (AZS) - problem XXI wieku
2009-11-05

Atopic dermatitis - the problem of the XXI century. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, recurrent, highly pruritic, inflammatory skin disease with a complex etiology. It is characterized by a typical localization and morphology of itchy lesions. Genetic and environmental factors are known to play an important role in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. The main treatment of AD is based on a topical application of glucocorticoids, which, however, is associated with a high risk of side effects. New topical medications include inhibitors of calcineurin - tacrolimus ointment and pimecrolimus cream, and provide skin-selective treatment that targets key factors involved in the pathogenesis of AD. Additionally, emollients, antihistamine drugs, oral glucocorticoids, cyclosporine, and phototherapy are used.

Keywords: atopic dermatitis, glucocorticosteroids, inhibitors of calcineurin, H₁-receptor antagonists.