Modern vision of pathogene­sis, clinical and immunological features and new methods of atopic dermatitis treatment

Abstract

The article provides a literature review of one of the modern medical social problems in the world atopic dermatitis. Epidemiological data, current view on the pathogenesis of this disease, the role of genetic factors and epigenetic mechanisms in the development of dermatosis and modern treatment approaches are highlighted. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease which common for children and adolescents, as well as for adults. Epidemiological studies conducted in different countries reveal the high prevalence and increased incidence of atopic dermatitis over the past three decades. Atopic dermatitis significantly affects the quality of patients and their relatives lives and also results in considerable social and economic burdens. Atopic dermatitis is a heterogeneous disease which pathogenesis is associated with mutations in genes encoding epidermal structural proteins, as well as genes that regulate innate and adaptive immune responses to environmental factors. In addition, the review reflects studies on the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation underlying the development of atopic dermatitis: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation, histone modification, and micro ribonucleic acid (microRNA)-mediated mechanisms of gene expression regulation. Epigenetic modifications in parents are realized in offspring in several generations, causing a wide range of clinical differences in the course of the disease in different age and gender groups. Currently available treatments for atopic dermatitis achieve remission but not a cure. The study of the disease pathogenesis, combined with the continuation of research on finding effective drugs, determines the prospects for developing prevention and treatment of atopic dermatitis.