Modulation of atopy patch test reactions by topical treatment of human skin with a fatty acid-rich emollient.
Measures directed at improving the skin barrier function are thought to be effective in preventing reexacerbation of atopic dermatitis, but direct proof of a prophylactic effect of emollients has been elusive. In the present study, the atopy patch test has been employed as a model for the initiation phase of atopic dermatitis in order to assess whether pretreatment of non-lesional skin with a fatty acid-rich emollient (Eucerin Omega Creme) has a prophylactic effect in patients with atopic dermatitis. Pretreatment of test sites with Eucerin Omega Creme either prevented or diminished the development of eczema, as compared with untreated control test sites in the same patients (n = 38). These studies indicate that the use of fatty acid-rich emollients prevents the development of atopic eczema. They also demonstrate that the atopy patch test can be used to assess the capacity of a given regimen to exert prophylactic effects in this disease.
Billmann-Eberwein
C
C
Clinical and Experimental Photodermatology, Department of Dermatology, University of Düsseldorf, 40225, Germany.
Rippke
F
F
Ruzicka
T
T
Krutmann
J
J
D000328:Adult; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000276:immunology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004643:Emollients / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005227:Fatty Acids / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008055:Lipids; D008875:Middle Aged; D009823:Ointment Bases / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000276:immunology; D012882:Skin Tests / Q000379:methods
D004643:Emollients; D005227:Fatty Acids; D008055:Lipids; D009823:Ointment Bases; C039909:eucerin