[Constitutional eczema; the possibilities of local treatment].
Atopic dermatitis is a common skin disease with a major impact on the quality of life. The cause of this disease is unknown and the diagnosis is made using a set of diagnostic features. In very moderate cases topical treatment of the dry skin may be sufficient. In more severe cases topical treatment with corticosteroids is recommended. Dependent on the steroid used and the severity of the eczema, different application schemes and treatment methods may be used. In exceptional cases, tar derivatives, topical antibacterial compounds and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be applied. In the near future, the limited therapeutic arsenal of topically effective substances will almost certainly be extended to include drugs such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus with an inhibiting effect on inflammatory cytokines.
Sillevis Smitt
J H
JH
Academisch Medisch Centrum/Universiteit van Amsterdam, afd. Huidziekten, Postbus 22.660, 1100 DD Amsterdam. j.h.sillevissmitt@amc.uva.nl
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D006801:Humans; D011788:Quality of Life; D017592:Skin Care; D013256:Steroids
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D013256:Steroids