How to Tell the Difference Between Nummular Eczema and Ringworm
It’s often difficult to distinguish between nummular eczema and ringworm, so it’s always best to be evaluated by a dermatologist, say experts.
Published On: Mar 17, 2017
Last Updated On: Jul 15, 2021
Each year, thousands gather to hear the latest happenings in dermatology at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting. Photo Credit: Dermatology World
Atopic dermatitis is a hot field of study. Here are some highlights from this year’s AAD meeting.
Tralokinumab, an investigational biologic drug, showed positive results in Phase 2b clinical trials in adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. This investigational drug targets the cytokine interleukin 13 (IL-13). When functioning correctly, IL-13 helps regulate the immune system and inflammation in the body.
LEO Pharma is researching tralokinumab. The company expects to move into the next phase of clinical trial study in the first half of 2017.
New data from clinical trials shows that dupilumab, an investigational biologic treatment, significantly reduces the severity of symptoms of atopic dermatitis in adults. Specifically, patients in the trials experienced improved quality of life, reduced itch and notably higher rates of clear or almost clear skin as compared to patients who were using just steroids. The data was collected from more than 700 patients at week 16 and week 52 of their treatment with dupilumab alone, dupilumab and a steroid in combination or a steroid alone.
Dupilumab targets IL-4 and IL-13 to regulate the immune system response in atopic dermatitis. The Food and Drug Administration is expected to make a decision on approval of dupilumab in March 2017.
Tofacitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor approved in oral form for rheumatoid arthritis may have promise as a potential treatment for alopecia, vitiligo and eczema.
JAK inhibitors work by interrupting cytokines from “signaling” one another through the Janus kinase enzyme family. This signaling contributes to inflammation, resulting in symptoms common to eczema.
A preliminary study of 69 patients with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis, showed that topical application of tofacitinib reduced symptoms of itch in as soon as 48 hours. Participants in the study reported significant reductions in itch and improved sleep.
It’s often difficult to distinguish between nummular eczema and ringworm, so it’s always best to be evaluated by a dermatologist, say experts.
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