Skin barrier function in atopic dermatitisVickery, Brian PCurrent Opinion in Pediatrics: February 2007 - Volume 19 - Issue 1 - p 89–93 doi: 10.1097/MOP.0b013e328012315a Allergy, immunology and related disorders Abstract Author Information Purpose of review: Whereas much investigation in atopic dermatitis has focused upon the adaptive immune response, new data suggest that allergic sensitization may occur secondary to impairment of skin barrier function. Recent findings: Two common loss-of-function mutations in the FLG gene encoding filaggrin (an important component of terminal keratinocyte differentiation) are strongly associated with the development of atopic dermatitis and asthma associated with atopic dermatitis. Summary: Genetic defects in skin barrier function should be recognized as major risk factors for the development of atopic dermatitis and asthma. Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA Correspondence to Brian P. Vickery, MD, Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, PO Box 208013, New Haven, CT 06520, USA Tel: +203 785 4143; fax: +203 785 3229; e-mail: brian.vickery@yale.edu © 2007 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.
