PDS launches handbook on moisturizers for atopic dermatitis

MANILA, Philippines - The Pediatric Dermatology Subspecialty Core Group of the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) has launched “A Guide to Understanding Moisturizers in Atopic Dermatitis,” a handbook for Filipino physicians that will serve as a complete and concise source of information about moisturizers, their mode of action, and scientific evidence supporting their efficacy.

One of the highlights of the handbook is a review of published scientific articles on all moisturizers available in the Philippines.

Atopic dermatitis (also called atopic eczema) is a chronic, relapsing skin disorder characterized by itching, which may be severe, especially at night; red to brownish-gray colored patches; small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched; thickened, cracked or scaly skin; and raw, sensitive skin from scratching. It affects one in five children worldwide.

Atopic dermatitis most often begins in childhood before age five and may persist into adulthood. It can flare periodically and then subside for a time before flaring up again. Itching may be severe, and scratching the rash can make it even itchier and cause more inflammation.

Once the skin barrier is broken by repeated scratching, the skin can become infected by bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus, which commonly live on the skin. Breaking this itch-scratch cycle is a major challenge.

“To date, no single reference on the use of moisturizers in atopic dermatitis is available for doctors in the Philippines. We are pleased to work with A. Menarini Philippines in developing ‘A Guide to Understanding Moisturizers in Atopic Dermatitis,’” said Dr. Maria Victoria Dizon, chair of the Pediatric Dermatology Subspecialty Core Group.

“While the cornerstone of treatment is the use of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation during flare-ups, moisturizers play a vital role in atopic dermatitis therapy, whether during flare-ups or remission. Beyond preventing and treating dry skin, moisturizers have therapeutic effects on inflamed or eczematous skin as well,” said Dr. Adelaide Ann Hebert, professor of the Department of Dermatology and Department of Pediatrics at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas.

Dizon and Hebert spoke during the A. Menarini Philippines media briefing on moisturizers and launch of “A Guide to Understanding Moisturizers in Atopic Dermatitis” on Tuesday at the Crowne Plaza Galleria Hotel in Quezon City.  

“We congratulate the Pediatric Dermatology Subspecialty Core Group of the Philippine Dermatological Society for creating an evidence-based, handy physicians’ reference that will be a big help in easing the pain and discomfort of Filipino children suffering from atopic dermatitis,” said Dr. Maria Carolina de Quiroz, medical affairs director of A. Menarini Philippines.

“We are honored to support the development of this very timely handbook. A. Menarini Philippines is committed to work with Filipino physicians in continuously improving the quality of Philippine healthcare,” said Ninia Torres, general manager of A. Menarini Philippines.