Clinical Pearls for the Treatment of AD

This is a video synopsis/summary of a panel discussion involving Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD; Peter Lio, MD; Lisa Swanson, MD, PhD; and Alexandra Golant, MD.

Dr Swanson shares a clinical pearl emphasizing the importance of discussing with patients not only the potential side effects of medications but also the side effects of inadequately controlling atopic dermatitis (AD). She stresses the impact of uncontrolled AD on a patient's quality of life and well-being, highlighting how patients may not fully realize the extent of their suffering until effective treatment is administered. Dr Swanson suggests considering the metaphor of a slowly-heating bathtub to illustrate how AD can gradually worsen, affecting patients without them being fully aware.

Dr Golant adds to the discussion by focusing on severity score measures and the shift towards emphasizing quality of life. She suggests initiating systemic medications, including JAK inhibitors, based on the impact of AD on a patient's quality of life rather than solely relying on severity scores. The conversation also touches on the significance of recording accurate itch scores, connecting them to a tremendous difference in quality of life.

The clinical pearl from another colleague involves emphasizing patient compliance with JAK inhibitors. A patient's experience of rapid itch relief, akin to a light switch, underscores the importance of consistent medication adherence. Dr Swanson expresses enthusiasm about the future of AD management, anticipating advancements such as IL-31 inhibitors, additional IL-13 inhibitors, and non-steroidal topical medicines, reflecting the exciting prospect of a golden age in the treatment of atopic dermatitis.

Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by HCPLive editorial staff.