Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects nearly 18 million children and adults in the United States. Approximately 90% of the patients have mild to moderate symptoms.6,7 It is the most common atopic dermatitis (AD) skin disease, and it typically begins in childhood and lasts potentially throughout adulthood. The cause is unknown but believed to be a combination of genetic, immune and environmental factors. 6,7 Symptoms may include red, swollen, scaly and crusted bumps that can be extremely itchy. Scratching can worsen symptoms and can lead to swelling, cracking, and “weeping” clear fluid, which can coarsen and thicken the skin.6,7,9,10 AD is associated with multiple comorbidities, and has deleterious impacts on both individual and family quality of life. Some comorbidities include sleep impairment, asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergies, and various cutaneous infections. 4 Over the past 15 years, no significant advances have been made in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. However, crisaborole has the potential to be an important first-line treatment option.
