Gene expression profile tests can personalize treatment for patients with atopic dermatitis.
Understanding Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema, a group of inflammatory skin conditions. This chronic condition occurs when the immune system triggers inflammation that damages the skin barrier, leading to symptoms such as red, dry, and itchy patches on the skin. Atopic dermatitis is very common, affecting more than 26 million individuals in the United States, according to the National Eczema Association. It typically begins in childhood, and symptoms can alternate between flaring and clearing up.
New Solutions
Advancements in testing have made it possible to individualize the best systemic treatment for patients with atopic dermatitis. These include AdvanceAD-Tx, a cutting-edge, non-invasive test that helps identify the immune system changes causing atopic dermatitis to occur. It works by measuring the expression of 487 genes across 12 skin and inflammatory pathways linked to the condition using a neural algorithm to identify patients’ unique gene expression profiles. The results guide decision-making for providers, who are then able to select a systemic treatment that aligns with the biology behind the patient’s atopic dermatitis.
Benefits to Patients
AdvanceAD-tx allows clinicians to match treatment to a patient’s immune profile, personalizing care and improving outcomes. By receiving the appropriate treatment earlier, patients can avoid the frustration of cycling through multiple treatment options, which can involve higher healthcare costs and delay effective care. With precise testing, patients can find relief sooner.
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in advertising with the distinction of summa cum laude and served as editor-in-chief of the university’s biannual magazine, The Vindagua. After graduation, Rachel joined CMC Media & Marketing Group as an editor. Today, she serves as managing editor and is responsible for leading the editorial team in the development and completion of content for 17 publications involving health & wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville™ – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. In addition to writing, editing, and coordinating copy, Rachel oversees networking and reputation management for the company’s publications. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, attending concerts, trying new restaurants, and traveling with her husband.
