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Document Type

Poster

Description

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic remitting problem faced by many people in our communities of all ages. Atopic dermatitis (AD) presents as an erythematous and pruritic rash. There is no cure, only treatments that help alleviate symptoms. The purpose of this literature review is to help determine the best course of action for treatment for patients who suffer from AD. Phototherapy has been growing in popularity and research as an alternate treatment to systemic and pharmacologic therapies. This review was done using PubMed, Clinical Key, DynaMed, and Cochrane. Studies were included that reviewed the side effects and efficacy of each treatment option, as well as evaluated patient preference and adherence to treatment. There were also meta-analyses used that compared studies done on various treatment modalities safety and efficacy that were included. There were no restrictions on date of articles that were included. The review showed that phototherapy is an effective option to treat symptoms of AD but should be reserved as a second line option after a patient has tried and failed topical therapy. Systemic pharmacologic therapies are also considered a second line option. Systemic therapies have a greater side effect profile than phototherapy does. Phototherapy has been shown effective, but long term it is better and more sustainable to use systemic pharmacologic options to treat and control AD.

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

Date of Work

2021

Publication Date

2021

Keywords

Atopic dermatitis, erythematous and pruritic rash, phototherapy, cutaneous atrophy, dyspigmentation, and perioral dermatitis

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

Effects of Phototherapy in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis

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