The latest research and treatments relating to the skin disorder atopic dermatitis, one of the most common inflammatory skin diseases, was explained at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar’s
(WCM-Q) grand rounds.
Dr Martin Steinhoff, professor and chairman, department of dermatology and venereology at Hamad Medical Corporation, discussed the biological pathways involved in atopic dermatitis, characterised by red, swollen and cracked skin that can become intensely itchy. Patients also have abnormal dry skin, which leads to itching and scratching.
Dr Steinhoff said that chronic itch should not be considered a trivial symptom because of the severe detrimental impact it has on quality of life.
“Chronic itching is comparable to chronic pain in that it can be a source of near constant torment for the patient. This can lead to depression, social withdrawal and even suicidal feelings. We also know that patients who are successfully treated and have less itching experience a dramatic improvement in their quality of life,” he said.
Atopic dermatitis, also known as atopic eczema, frequently occurs in people who suffer from allergies. Atopic indicates a predisposition to develop allergic hypersensitivity against certain allergens like house dust, mites, animals or food, for example.
Dr Steinhoff also said that researchers are attempting to improve their understanding of atopic dermatitis by investigating the interaction between the nervous system, which transmits the itching sensation from the skin to the brain, and the immune system. “This interaction appears to be important in producing inflammation and itch,” he said.
Dr Steinhoff speaking at the event.