The approval of a new biologic treatment shown to significantly ease the burden of Atopic Dermatitis (AD) should come as good news as the world recognises World Atopic Eczema Day tomorrow (September 14).
AD is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease characterised by unpredictable flare-ups, driven in part by a malfunction in the immune system. The most stressful symptom is severe itch, which is a chronic problem for 87% to 100% of patients with AD.
Dr Michael Klein, General Manager of Sanofi Genzyme for South Africa, Namibia and Botswana, has explained that previously there were few options available in South Africa to treat people with moderate-to-severe AD. “Many patients were unable to adequately control their condition despite the currently available topical and steroid treatment options.”
He said that there was now hope for sufferers in the form of an approved, innovative biologic therapy in South Africa, for the treatment of moderately- to severely-affected adult patients with AD. The new treatment is given by subcutaneous injection, which can be self-administered every other week after the initial loading dose. It can also be used with or without topical corticosteroids.“This new therapy will revolutionise the way South African dermatologists treat patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, and will dramatically improve their quality of life,” explained Dr Willie Visser, Head of Dermatology, Stellenbosch University.
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