Addressing Unmet Needs in Atopic Dermatitis: Evaluating Disease-Modifying Capabilities of Current and Emerging Therapies

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a highly burdensome inflammatory skin condition affecting nearly one-quarter of the pediatric population and often continuing into adulthood. Despite recent advancements in systemic therapies providing temporary symptom relief over the past decade, AD frequently remains difficult to control, necessitating increased dosages or alternative treatments due to recurrent disease. This review synthesizes current literature to identify unmet needs of treating AD beyond medication-related limitations and evaluates existing therapies for their efficacy in modifying underlying disease mechanisms. Key findings include variability in AD pathophysiology and phenotypes across different age groups and ethnicities, indicating a need for research into endotype-specific treatments. The literature also comprises evidence suggesting that select current drugs, such as targeted biologics and Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors, may offer long-term disease-modifying benefits. Future management strategies should explore novel approaches, including manipulation of the microbiome, immune response, and neural function, as these may lead to additional improvements in AD treatment and long-term symptom relief.