Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory dermatosis characterized by epidermal barrier dysfunction, type 2–skewed immune activation, and intense pruritus with eczematous lesions. Disease expression varies by age and severity, with recurrent flares and a well-established association with atopic comorbidities including asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergy.
Why it matters: Atopic dermatitis affects tens of millions of individuals in the United States and is associated with substantial disease burden, including sleep disturbance, mental health comorbidity, and systemic inflammatory comorbidities. Moderate-to-severe AD often requires escalation beyond topical therapy, and the rapid expansion of targeted biologics and oral JAK inhibitors has significantly altered the treatment paradigm, requiring clinicians to remain current with evolving efficacy and safety data.
This hub gathers the evidence, expert perspective, and practical insight shaping how atopic dermatitis is understood and treated today, connecting emerging therapies with the everyday decisions that define long-term care.
Diagnosis
Severity Assessment
Treatment Stratification (General Framework)
Download our free biologics Quick Reference Chart for dermatology
Download our free JAK/TYK2 Inhibitors for Dermatology Quick Reference Charts
Download our free Quick Reference Chart for Topical Non-steroidal and Fixed Combination Therapies
Download our free Quick Reference Chart for Vaccines and Systemic Therapies Chart
Dawn Merritt, DO
E. James Song, MD, FAAD
Dr Jenny Murase presents a case of severe, dupilumab-refractory atopic dermatitis with idiopathic sudomotor failure successfully managed with lebrikizumab.
Jenny Murase, MD