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 degree in English with a minor in advertising. While attending Lee, Rachel served as editor-in-chief and creative director for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society. As managing editor for CMC Media & Marketing Group, she is responsible for the development and completion of 16 publications involving health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia. Additionally, Rachel has led digital marketing initiatives for CMC Media & Marketing Group as well as the development of content for the introduction of Choose Huntsville™, Huntsville Resource & Relocation Guide™ for Huntsville, Alabama.
