Current and Emerging Biologics for Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic pruritic inflammatory skin disease that affects all ages and is recognized as a global health problem. Pathophysiology is complex with skin barrier abnormalities, immune dysregulation, and microbial dysbiosis all implicated. Markers of immune and inflammatory activation in the circulation provide a rationale for systemic therapy. Type 2 immune polarization is central, though other cytokine pathways including Th22 and Th17/IL-23 have been described, suggesting additional therapeutic targets in a subset of patients. Dupilumab and tralokinumab are monoclonal antibodies currently approved for moderate-to-severe AD with lebrikizumab and nemolizumab in late stages of development.