Atopic Dermatitis Bolognia

Question 1

Although skin colonization and infection with S. aureus can play a role in triggering AD flares, there is no evidence to support the use of topical antibiotics or antiseptic agents to treat AD, with the exception of “bleach baths”

Answer 1

Although skin colonization and infection with S. aureus can play a role in triggering AD flares, there is no evidence to support the use of topical antibiotics or antiseptic agents to treat AD, with the exception of “bleach baths”

Question 2

In a randomized control study, bathing in 0.005% sodium hypochlorite 2x weekly together + monthly 5 day course of intranasal topical mupirocin for 3 months

Answer 2

led to greater improvement of moderate to severe, superinfected AD (both group initially received a 2 week course of oral cephalexin) and continued their topical anti-inflammatory regimen

Question 3

the routine use of systemic antibiotics for AD is not recommended

Answer 3

However, systemic antibiotics can be utilized when AD patients display:
1) clinical evidence of bacterial infection such as:
- pustules
- purulent exudate
- furuncles

Similarly, systemic antiviral agents should be used to treat eczema herpeticum