Comparison of different skin care regimens in patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis receiving systemic treatment: A randomized controlled trial

Nina Magnolo, Thomas Jaenicke, Athanasios Tsianakas, Wolfgang Czech, Diamant Thaçi, Andreas Pinter, Delphine Kerob, Samir Salah, Thomas A. Luger*

*Corresponding author for this work
1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Moderate to severe AD can be successfully managed by systemic treatments. Current guidelines also recommend emollients or emollients ‘plus’ and eudermic cleansers for all AD patients to improve the skin barrier and provide anti-irritant and anti-pruritic effects. Objectives: To investigate the efficacy of skin care (in addition to systemic treatment) with an Emollient ‘plus’ balm designed to improve the skin barrier and skin microbiome plus a corresponding syndet compared to usual commercial emollients and cleansers. Methods: In a randomized controlled multicenter study, patients with moderate to severe AD (Severity scoring of atopic dermatitis [SCORAD] score ≥ 40) receiving systemic treatment (cyclosporin A, dupilumab or a Janus kinase inhibitor) were randomized 1:1 to apply twice daily for 10 weeks Emollient ‘plus’ after pre-cleaning with the syndet (Emollient ‘plus’ group) or to continue with their usual emollient and cleanser (Control group). Assessments included SCORAD, pruritus on a Visual Analog Scale, Dermatology quality of life questionnaire (DLQI), efficacy and tolerance questionnaires. Results: Included were 57 patients with mean age of 38 years (range 19–70 years). The mean amount of emollient used after 10 weeks was 447.3 g (range 29–1099 g) and 613.2 g (range 97–2565 g) for the Emollient ‘plus’ versus the Control, respectively (p = 0.0277). After 10 weeks, subjects in the Emollient ‘plus’ had a significantly greater reduction in current pruritus (p = 0.0277) and a greater reduction in some DLQI items compared to the Control group. Conclusions: In patients with moderate to severe AD receiving systemic treatment, the Emollient ‘plus’ regimen significantly improved pruritus and quality of life items compared to the control, while using 23% less product over a 10-week period. These results stress the importance of daily use of emollients, especially emollients ‘plus’ to improve signs, symptoms and quality of life in patients with AD.

Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology
Volume37
Issue numberS5
Pages (from-to)18-26
Number of pages9
ISSN0926-9959
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 06.2023

Research Areas and Centers

  • Academic Focus: Center for Infection and Inflammation Research (ZIEL)
  • Centers: Center for Research on Inflammation of the Skin (CRIS)

DFG Research Classification Scheme

  • 2.22-19 Dermatology

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