In episode 49 of Derms and Conditions, James Q. Del Rosso, DO and Mark Lebwohl, MD discussed the pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis and the role of cytokines in its management.

Drs. Lebwohl and Del Rosso discussed how specific cytokines can be targeted for a safer treatment of atopic dermatitis. They emphasized that the targeted therapies for atopic dermatitis do not have any boxed warnings and the treatment of cytokines, specifically interleukin-4 (IL-4) and IL-13, can significantly improve itching and dermatitis. Dr. Lebwohl discussed the inhibiting of IL-13 to make atopic dermatitis better and that blocking IL-4 and IL-13 was highly effective for treating atopic dermatitis.

In terms of utilizing less targeted therapies, Dr. Lebwohl stated that all the drugs they use work by knocking down IL-13 but with varying side effects. The use of old drugs such as methotrexate and cyclosporine has several side effects, and doctors need to be cautious about their usage.