Systematic agents in the therapeutic approach to atopic eczema. Established treatments and experimental developments

Our therapeutic approach to atopic eczema consists of a continous topical d ermatological basic therapy in combination with an antiinflammatory therapy in phases of exacerbations. In the treatment of exacerbated atopic eczema, systemic agents are added to achieve effective control more rapidly or to induce remissions in cases refractory to standard therapy. Antihistamines;t o control the pruritus, as well-as antibiotics and acyclovir for antimicrob ial superinfections are often used. In many patients exacerbations can be s uccessfully controlled with phototherapy, especially with UVA(1) light. The use of systemic immunosuppressants, like glucocorticosteroids, cyclosporin e or azathioprine generally can be avoided and is a therapeutic alternative only in few selected cases. In the last years promising new experimental t reatments have evolved, which could become therapeutic alternatives for the future.