Eczema Breakthroughs

New Eczema Treatments for Kids: Updates from the 2026 AAD Meeting and More

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 08:30:00 -0700

Join us for an enlightening conversation about existing, newly approved, and "coming soon" treatments for kids suffering from eczema -- from pills, to injections, to creams. In this two-part series, GPER's Executive Director interviews expert Dr. Peter Lio of the Chicago Integrative Eczema Center about the latest therapies for kids and explores how to choose between them ... and what's on the horizon based on news from the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting. Learn more about how these treatments work and who they are best suited for in this 30-minute episode that is sure to offer insights -- and hope.

Help your teen take charge of their eczema care—without turning it into a battle

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0700

As children grow into teenagers, they want more independence. But eczema self-management, using treatments correctly, sticking to routines, and attending medical appointments is a big responsibility. So how do parents step back without letting things fall apart? In this episode, we hear from parents, teenagers, young adults, and healthcare professionals about how to make the transition to independent eczema care smoother and less stressful for everyone. Our guest is Dr. Miriam Santer, Professor of Primary Care Research at University of Southampton, who specializes in supporting young people with long-term conditions like eczema.

Links:

https://www.eczemacareonline.org.uk

Eating fat-rich foods and changing baby skincare: Insights for prevention from GPER-funded research

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0700

Can what we eat feed the skin to help eczema? Does a baby’s gut microbiome play a role in eczema developing? And could simple everyday practices help prevent it?

In this special edition podcast from our Research Symposium, experts Dr. Carina Venter, Dr. Theodora Karagounis, Dr. Derek Chu, and Dr. Richard Insel share the latest research funded by Global Parents for Eczema Research and what it means for families living with eczema.

Research discussed

Bifidobacterium deficit in United States infants drives prevalent gut dysbiosis

The gut is a relevant reservoir of staphylococcus aureus in pediatric atopic dermatitis

Diversity of complementary diet and early food allergy risk

Will Removing Foods Help Your Child’s Eczema—or Make Things Worse?

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Can specific foods trigger eczema and does avoiding them make eczema better? Many parents give it a try—but experts say it’s not the right approach. So what’s going on? We talk to Dr. Matthew Ridd, a leading eczema and food allergy researcher from the University of Bristol, to find out what the science actually says about diet and eczema.

References

TIGER (Trial of food allergy (IgE) tests for Eczema Relief)

Food Allergy Test‐Guided Dietary Advice for Children With Atopic Dermatitis

Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) guidelines

Guidelines for Early Food Introduction and Patterns of Food Allergy

From Foe to Friend: Could common skin fungi be harnessed to heal the skin barrier?

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:05:00 -0700

Is everyday skin fungus playing a bigger role in eczema than we ever realized? What if the culprit behind cradle cap, dupilumab facial redness and eczema flare-ups in puberty is hiding in plain sight, on the surface of our skin? Professor of Fungal Immunology from University of Zurich. Dr. Salome LeibundGut-Landmann, explains the secret world of skin fungi, how it affects eczema and a bold new project to convert fungi into skin helpers.

Literature Mentioned

Exeter secures £3.3 million grant to investigate treatment and prevention of eczema

A Case of Cutaneous Fungal Infection Following the Administration of Dupilumab

Retrospective Analysis of the Relationship Between Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis and Atopic Dermatitis

Malassezia-associated skin diseases in the pediatric population

Dupilumab facial redness: Clinical characteristics and proposed treatment in a cohort

Advances on the role of mycobiome in atopic dermatitis

How to Choose & Use Products To Control Eczema: A Science-Backed Roadmap

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0700

The devil is in the details, and in this episode of the Eczema Breakthroughs Podcast, we dive deep into smarter skin care for kids with eczema. Dr. Helen Brough (Director: Children’s Allergy Doctors, London), one of the leading experts in eczema treatment, shares step-by-step, evidence-based guidance on moisturizing, bathing, and proactive steroid use. Joining her is Dr. Amber Atwater (Clinical Associate Professor of Dermatology, George Washington University), who unpacks the tricky overlap between allergic contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis, and why choosing low-allergen products is essential.

References

Emollients to Prevent Pediatric Eczema: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Eczema Care Online

Consumer Preferences, Product Characteristics, and Potentially Allergenic Ingredients in Best-selling Moisturizers

Emollients to Prevent Pediatric Eczema: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Skin Safe 100

Staph’s secret superpower and their accomplice Streptococcus

Thu, 22 May 2025 10:00:00 -0700

Two new studies from the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID) conference reveal how Staph bacteria use clever strategies to disarm the skin's barrier maintenance function and work with other bacteria to amplify inflammation. Join us for an interview with Dr. Nathan Archer and Dr. Laine Feller from John Hopkins School of Medicine who explain how Staph aureus bacteria uses its superantigen superpower to hinder lipid production ... and more new research from this year's SID meeting.

New nonsteroidal eczema cream approved for kids

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0700

New treatment alert! The FDA recently approved Tapinarof, applied as a cream, for kids 2 years and up. We ask Dr. Leon Kircik from Icahn School of Medicine, NY, who led the clinical trials about the safety, efficacy and side effects of Tapinarof. And because we are parents too, we ask: How quickly does it work? Can you start/stop it as needed? How easy will it be to access? And more. If you like our podcast, please consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.

Research discussed

Tapinarof Improved Outcomes and Sleep for Patients and Families in Two Phase 3 Atopic Dermatitis Trials in Adults and Children

Maximal usage trial of tapinarof cream 1% once daily in pediatric patients down to 2 years of age with extensive atopic dermatitis

Tapinarof cream 1% once daily: Significant efficacy in the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in adults and children down to 2 years of age in the pivotal phase 3 ADORING trials

Tapinarof cream in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in children and adults a systematic review and meta-analysis

Efficacy and safety of Ruxolitinib, Crisaborole, and Tapinarof for mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis: a Bayesian network analysis of RCTs

Hot off the press - What researchers are talking about at AAAAI Allergy Conference.

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0700

What to look out for in eczema moisturizers, why eczema babies have rosy red cheeks and can allergies transfer to baby from breast milk? Join Korey Capozza, Dr. Jessica Hui-Beckman (National Jewish Health) and Dr. Kirsi Jarvinen-Seppo (University of Rochester) to find the answers. If you like our podcast, please consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.

Research discussed

Consumer Preferences, Product Characteristics, and Potentially Allergenic Ingredients in Best-selling Moisturizers

Early Life Cheek Skin Barrier Changes are Associated with Atopic Dermatitis Development

Prevention of IgE-Mediated Food Allergy: Emerging Strategies Through Maternal and Neonatal Interventions

Could biologic injectables change the eczema trajectory?

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0700

Could injectable drugs called "biologics" stop eczema by teaching a child's developing immune system to be less reactive? Dr. Amy Paller from Northwestern University Chicago and Dr. Elaine Siegfried from Saint Louis University in Missouri discuss stopping or tapering biologics and what happens to the immune system when we are on them. If you like our podcast, please consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.

Research discussed

Clinical remission and therapy-free remission in pediatric patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis treated with dupilumab

Factors Associated with Remission of Eczema in Children

Persistence of Mild to Moderate Atopic Dermatitis

Longitudinal atopic dermatitis control and persistence vary with timing of disease onset in children

You are what you eat or, more precisely, what your MICROBIOME eats.

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0700

How much influence does the gut microbiome have on developing eczema or allergies? Turns out, quite a lot. Join this special excerpt from our research symposium to learn how antibiotics in pregnancy and early childhood increases eczema risk and how adding "biotics" might prevent it in the first place. Our speakers are Dr. David Margolis (University of Pennsylvania) and Dr. Nikole Kimes (Siolta Therapeutics). If you like our podcast, please consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.

Can Traditional Chinese Medicine treat eczema?

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0700

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) uses biological extracts to treat disease. Eczema sufferers may take a herbal bath, apply a specially formulated cream or drink herbal tea as part of TCM treatment. Dr. Xiu Min Li from New York Medical College explains TCM and we ask: Is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) safe for newborns? Can you use TCM and topical steroids simultaneously? Could TCM prevent the allergic march?

Research mentioned

Investigation of Berberine's Potential in Attenuating Staphylococcus aureus-Induced Inflammatory Responses

Investigation of In vitro Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial Effects of Berberine

Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in moderate-to-severe eczema in clinic and animal model: beyond corticosteroids

Traditional Chinese medicine for food allergy and eczema

Effect of traditional Chinese medicine on skin lesions and quality of life in patients with moderate to severe eczema

Efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine for atopic dermatitis: Evidence from eight high-quality randomized placebo-controlled trials.

How to get smiles while applying moisturizer, sleep strategies and other eczema care advice

Sat, 14 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0700

Are you feeling lost and don’t know where to find trusted advice on managing eczema? Introducing ECZHALE, your one-stop-shop for reliable information and resources on eczema care. Join Dr. Jennifer LeBovidge, psychologist and Assistant Professor at the Atopic Dermatitis Center at Boston Children’s Hospital, and GPER’s Christine Pham Cutaran as they discuss the challenges of being an eczema caregiver and where you can turn for help.

Literature mentioned

Multidisciplinary interventions in the management of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis: therapeutic care delivery: therapeutic education, shared decision-making, and access to care

Improving patient education for atopic dermatitis

Resources

ECZHALE wellness hub

Support for Eczema Caregivers

Treatment Navigator

Could we take a pill to eradicate Staph aureus on the skin?

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0700

Is getting rid of Staph aureus in the gut the key to improving eczema? And can we control it without antibiotics? Join us as we ask these questions and more of Dr. Michael Otto, Chief of the Pathogen Molecular Genetics Section at the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases. (And if you like our podcast, consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation).

Research mentioned

Probiotic for pathogen-specific Staphylococcus aureus decolonisation in Thailand: a phase 2, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial

Commensal Staphylococcus epidermidis contributes to skin barrier homeostasis by generating protective ceramides

The association between Staphylococcus aureus colonization on cheek skin at 2 months and subsequent atopic dermatitis in a prospective birth cohort

Skin microbiota analysis-inspired development of novel anti-infectives

Combined antibiotic, steroid, and moisturizer for atopic dermatitis: A two‐year case series of patient‐reported outcomes

Who gets eczema and who grows out of it - and why? Are detergents, antibiotics and tiny plastics to blame?

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 10:00:00 -0700

Korey Capozza travels to Spain for the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology Congress where she speaks to researchers that are trying to explain the allergy epidemic and what we can do about it. Highlights: Dr. Magdalena Zemelka-Wiacek (Poland) explains microplastics cause inflammation. Tami Landau (Israel) uses “big data” to determine which children will develop eczema, and Dr Thomas Bieber (Germany) accesses the German Biobank to understand why some children go into remission.

Research Mentioned

Mechanisms of gut epithelial barrier impairment caused by food emulsifiers polysorbate 20 and polysorbate 80

Follow-up to adolescence after early peanut introduction for allergy prevention

The potential impact of nano-and microplastics on human health: Understanding human health risks

Biomarkers for phenotype-endotype relationship in atopic dermatitis

Development of a predictive model for pediatric atopic dermatitis

Pregnancy and the allergic trajectory

Wed, 29 May 2024 10:00:00 -0700

Could the diet and lifestyle of a mother during pregnancy influence whether her baby will develop eczema? Our podcast guests are studying the role that diet and the gut microbiome play in pregnancy. Join Dr. Carina Venter and Dr. Susan Lynch as we discuss what pregnant mothers can do to reduce the chances of baby developing eczema or allergies. (And if you like our podcast, consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation).

Research mentioned

Delayed gut microbiota development in high-risk for asthma infants is temporarily modifiable by Lactobacillus supplementation

Heritable vaginal bacteria influence immune tolerance and relate to early-life markers of allergic sensitization in infancy

Different Measures of Diet Diversity During Infancy and the Association with Childhood Food Allergy in a UK Birth Cohort Study

The Maternal Diet Index and Offspring Microbiota at 1 Month of Life: Insights from the Mediterranean Birth Cohort MAMI

New Eczema Guidelines from the Allergy Societies: Takeaways and Surprises

Wed, 29 May 2024 10:00:00 -0700

Frustrated by eczema care that ignores patient priorities? New guidelines from the medical societies for allergists and immunologists may help change that. These guidelines were informed by the views of eczema patients and caregivers and based in evidence (hallelujah!). We chat with the guideline co-authors Dr. Lynda Schneider, founder and director of the Atopic Dermatitis Center at Boston Children’s Hospital, and Dr. Derek Chu, director of the challenge clinic for allergy diagnosis, research and treatment at McMaster University, about some of the new and surprising ideas they recommend. (And if you like our podcast, consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation). Read the transcript.

Research mentioned

Atopic dermatitis guidelines: 2023

Is Food-Triggered Atopic Dermatitis a Form of Systemic Contact Dermatitis?

Research Highlights from the American Academy of Dermatology Meeting 2024

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 08:30:00 -0700

Five GPER staff members attended the American Academy of Dermatology conference in February, the biggest gathering of dermatologists worldwide. We bring you the newest treatments and latest research straight from the source. Join our conversation with GPER staffers Korey Capozza, Kara Orevillo, Christine Cutaran and Michelle Tu about what stood out this year. (And if you like our podcast, consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation).

Is the gut microbiome the key to allergic disease?

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0700

Could we cure allergies by taking probiotics or transplanting the gut microbiome from a healthy person? What does all this mean for eczema/allergy prevention? To find out, join our conversation with Dr. Rima Rachid, allergist and immunologist at Harvard Children’s Hospital, and Meenal Lele, eczema mom and author of Baby and the Biome. We discuss the promising trials with fecal microbiota transplants for food allergic children as well as the best probiotic to take for eczema and when it’s important to take it. (And if you like our podcast, consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation).

Literature featured in this podcast

The microbial origins of food allergy

Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of Oral Encapsulated Microbiota Transplantation Therapy in Peanut Allergic Patients

Lactobacillus rhamnosus Used in the Perinatal Period for the Prevention of Atopic Dermatitis in Infants

The Baby and the Biome book

Brilliant new ideas for beating eczema from eczema parents

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0700

The winners of the 2023 Big Ideas for Eczema contest share their novel ideas and how they came up with them. Our citizen scientist winners are Elizabeth Shores, Hannah Mitchell and Armando de la Libertad. Would you try these ideas? (If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.)

If you have an idea of your own, find out more about the Big Ideas 2024 competition here.

Eczema Research Highlights of 2023

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0700

What are the top research discoveries of 2023 related to eczema? Tune in to learn about new, needle-free Epi-Pen alternatives, painless tests for detecting eczema before it appears, and insights about how to address anxiety and depression related to eczema. Guests include Albert Chong of University of Southern California, Dr. Ruchi Gupta of Northwestern University, Dr. Ian Myles of NIH, and Dr. Kiwako Yamamoto-Hanada of National Children's Hospital, Tokyo. P.S. If you like our podcast, consider making a donation to GPER!

Research discussed in this podcast

mRNAs in skin surface lipids unveiled atopic dermatitis at 1 month

Patients' and Caregivers' Preferences for Mental Health Care and Support in Atopic Dermatitis

Innovations in the treatment of anaphylaxis: A review of recent data - ScienceDirect

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of epinephrine sublingual film versus intra-muscular epinephrine - Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Shotgun metagenomic sequencing on skin microbiome indicates dysbiosis exists prior to the onset of atopic dermatitis

What’s hot in eczema prevention?

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0700

Can moisturizers help prevent eczema? If so: when, what and how should they be applied? Can probiotics help? If so: who should take them - mother or baby? These questions and more are answered by Helen Brough, pediatric allergist and head of service at Evelina London Children's Hospital (UK). As part of our recent research symposium, she explains what research is going on in eczema management and prevention and what is still needed to make prevention a reality. She also has important tips for eczema care now. (If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.)

Research discussed in this episode

Early initiation of short-term emollient use for the prevention of atopic dermatitis in high-risk infants—The STOP-AD randomised controlled trial

Skin care interventions in infants for preventing eczema and food allergy

Probiotic supplementation for prevention of atopic dermatitis in infants and children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Early intervention and prevention of allergic diseases

Emollients in infancy to prevent atopic dermatitis: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

Epicutaneous sensitization in the development of food allergy: what is the evidence and how can this be prevented?

The inflammation-microbiome connection and how new therapies can correct both

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 07:45:00 -0700

New biological therapies like dupilumab target Type 2 inflammation, but new research shows they are also modifying the skin microbiome. In this episode we discuss what Type 2 inflammation is, why it matter in eczema, and how it modifies the microbiome. Our guest is Dr. Lisa Beck (Co-Director of the Center for Allergic Disease Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, NY) who has dedicated her 35 year career to understanding why some eczema patients are susceptible to skin infections and finding safe and effective eczema treatments.

Research associated with this podcast

Type 2 Inflammation Contributes to Skin Barrier Dysfunction in Atopic Dermatitis

Tralokinumab treatment improves the skin microbiota by increasing the microbial diversity in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis

Rapid Reduction in Staphylococcus aureus in Atopic Dermatitis Subjects Following Dupilumab Treatment

Is Dupixent forever? Is tapering Dupixent desirable or even possible?

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0700

Dupixent has transformed the lives of people with moderate to severe eczema, but will patients need to use it indefinitely? In this episode we explore tapering Dupixent (also known as dupilumab) with two researchers from University Medical Center Utrecht in the Netherlands that have created a patient-led roadmap for successful tapering. They are: Pediatric Dermatologist Dr. Marlies de Graaf, Head of the National Expertise Center of Atopic Dermatitis in Children; and Dr. Celeste Boesjes, who is a PhD candidate and Medical Doctor.

Research Discussed in this Podcast

Successful tapering of dupilumab in atopic dermatitis patients with low disease activity: a large pragmatic daily practice study from the BioDay registry

Association of serum dupilumab levels at 16 weeks with treatment response and adverse effects in patients with atopic dermatitis: a prospective clinical cohort study from the BioDay registry

Patient‐centered dupilumab dosing regimen leads to successful dose reduction in persistently controlled atopic dermatitis

Dupilumab in daily practice for the treatment of pediatric atopic dermatitis: 28‐week clinical and biomarker results from the BioDay registry

Dupilumab dose spacing after initial successful treatment or adverse events in adult patients with atopic dermatitis: a retrospective analysis

Ditching itch: What we know and what we still have to learn

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0700

Itch. It’s the hallmark symptom of eczema and the most troublesome. In this podcast we discuss why the eczema itch is so hard to treat and explore effective treatment options. We have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Shawn Kwatra, international leader in chronic itch research and Director of John Hopkins Itch Centre in Baltimore, and Dr. Shivani Patel, a practicing pediatric dermatologist who specializes in treating children with eczema. (If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.)

Research discussed in this podcast

Molecular and cellular mechanisms of itch and pain in atopic dermatitis and implications for novel therapeutics

Cumulative Use of Strong Anticholinergics and Incident Dementia

Living with Itch - A Patient's Guide

Exposures to chemicals in our environment and the allergy / eczema epidemic

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 07:30:00 -0700

What do microplastics, dishwasher rinse-aid, air pollution and processed foods have to do with eczema? Join us as we explore why allergic diseases were rare for our grandparents but now affect two billion people worldwide. Explaining the link is our guest, Professor Cezmi Akdis. He is a global leader in immunology, specializing in allergic diseases, editor-in-chief of Allergy, and a Professor at the University of Zurich in Switzerland. (If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.)

Research discussed in this podcast:

Scrubbing away our collective health

Does the epithelial barrier hypothesis explain the increase in allergy, autoimmunity and other chronic conditions?

Gut epithelial barrier damage caused by dishwasher detergents and rinse aids

Epithelial barrier hypothesis: Effect of the external exposome on the microbiome and epithelial barriers in allergic disease

Was it something I did? Does the eczema trajectory begin even before a baby is born?

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0700

Have you ever wondered if there is anything you can do during pregnancy to lower the chance of your baby developing eczema? Join our discussion with Dr. Suzanne Barshow from Stanford University who is overseeing the SUNBEAM study which investigates which factors lead to the development of allergic diseases, and Kortney Kwong Hing, co-host of The Itch Podcast and eczema sufferer who would like to avoid passing on her allergies to her future children. (If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.)

Meet the "citizen scientist" winners of our Big Ideas for Eczema Challenge

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0700

In our very first “Big Ideas” competition, we asked those who live with eczema for big ideas that could lead to better treatments or a cure. Learn about three brilliant ideas from the winners to help kids with eczema in the future. Our guests are Armando de la Libertad, Nic Novac and Angela Tiru, parents and patients who used their experiences and insights to come up with innovative research ideas. (If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.)

Have a Big Idea of your own? Enter this year’s Big Ideas competition here.

More information about Big Ideas 2022

Embracing your allergies: How micro-exposures to an allergen can make eczema better.

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0700

Could allergy drops (or shots) be the answer to reducing eczema flares? Recent research suggests that immunotherapy can improve eczema symptoms, and it is safe for kids, easy to use and inexpensive. We discuss how the treatment works and it’s potential to improve lives, especially for kids who can’t access expensive treatment programs. Our guests are Dr. Derek Chu, professor of medicine at McMaster University in Canada, and Dr. Sarah Langer, a pediatric immunologist from the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. (P.S. If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation).

Research in this podcast:

Allergen immunotherapy for atopic dermatitis: Systematic review and meta-analysis of benefits and harms

Efficacy of House Dust Mite Sublingual Immunotherapy in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Is eczema inevitable for some kids? Breakthrough research from 2022 suggests that testing and intervention for newborns could change the trajectory.

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0700

Imagine if doctors could use a non-invasive test on newborns to predict their risk of developing eczema? Now it might be possible. What’s more, new research suggests there is something you can do for high risk babies. Join us as we learn about an innovative test for eczema and what you might do with this information. Our guest speakers are Dr. Anne-Sofie Halling who is completing a PhD on biomarkers of atopic dermatitis at Copenhagen University, Denmark; Prof. Alan Irvine a professor of dermatology at Trinity College, Dublin Ireland; and, Prof. Jonathan Hourihane a professor of pediatrics and child health at Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. (If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.)

Research discussed in this podcast:

Skin biomarkers predict development of atopic dermatitis in infancy

Early initiation of short-term emollient use for the prevention of atopic dermatitis in high-risk infants—The STOP-AD randomised controlled trial

Skin care interventions in infants for preventing eczema and food allergy

Preventing Atopic Dermatitis and ALLergies in Children-the PreventADALL study.

Daily emollient during infancy for prevention of eczema: the BEEP randomised controlled trial

Is it in your head? How to recognize and address the mental health impacts of eczema

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 10:36:00 -0700

Until recently, the mental health impacts of eczema were hidden and under recognized. However, there's been a spate of new research that shows an association between eczema and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. And those impacts extend to parents and caregivers as well. Join the discussion with Dr. Mohammad Jafferany, Professor of Psychodermatology Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Central Michigan University; Prof. Andrew Thompson, Professor of Clinical Psychology Cardiff University in the UK; and Dr. Katrina Abuabara, Associate Professor at University of California, San Francisco. A special thank you to Incyte, a member of GPER's Corporate Council, for support of our programs, including the Eczema Breakthroughs Podcast. (P.S. If you like our podcast, please consider making a tax deductible donation to GPER!)

Research discussed in this episode:

Pollution to pollen, floods to fires: how does climate change affect children with sensitive skin?

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 08:30:00 -0700

Our skin protects us from our environment, and global warming is changing that environment. In turn, new research suggests this changing environment can alter our skin. In this episode we explore the impact climate change has on children with eczema and allergies. Our guests are: Dr. Mary Prunicki, Director of Air Pollution and Health Research at the Sean N Parker Centre for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University; Dr. Marc Rothenberg, Director of Allergy and Immunology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital; Dr. April Schachtel, chief of dermatology for the VA Puget Sound healthcare system in Washington State; and Dr. Markus Boos, pediatric dermatologist at Seattle Children's Hospital. If you are interested in this topic and would like to learn more, attend our virtual fall research symposium. Register here: www.parentsforeczemaresearch.com/symposium

Topical Steroids: Game changer or double-edged sword? What does the research say?

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 09:15:00 -0700

Topical corticosteroids (TCS) use is controversial in our community and generates a lot of concern among caregivers. Yet, it is the mainstay of eczema treatment for children and nearly every child who sees a doctor for eczema is likely using topical steroids. TCS do usually help with eczema symptoms, but it can be hard to wean off them and then there are side effects. In the first segment, we talk with dermatologist Dr. Steven Feldman from Wake Forest Baptist in North Carolina and two eczema parents who had very different experiences with topical corticosteroids. In the second segment, we discuss the very latest findings on steroid use with UK dermatology nurse Sandra Lawton who is a contributing author on the 2022 Cochrane Review, "What is the best way to use topical corticosteroids to treat people with eczema". (Please consider supporting our podcast, with a tax deductible donation) https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?id=3&name=E357477

Research related to this episode:

What is the best way to use topical corticosteroids to treat people with eczema? https://www.cochrane.org/CD013356/SKIN_what-best-way-use-topical-corticosteroids-treat-people-eczema

Combined antibiotic, steroid and moisturizer for atopic dermatitis https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.14458

Topical steroid withdrawal reactions: a review of the evidence https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/topical-steroid-withdrawal-reactions-a-review-of-the-evidence/topical-steroid-withdrawal-reactions-a-review-of-the-evidence?fbclid=IwAR0SERPj4RVykRAf9SRJ2BIRGUq1_NbiZ34hE_5BDxdzPrfmsrGDAcCN9VE

Do we dare dream of a future where eczema and food allergies can be prevented?

Thu, 26 May 2022 04:00:00 -0700

Eczema and food allergy are closely intertwined, particularly when it comes to questions of prevention. We know that eczema tends to be the first condition to emerge in the atopic march and there is growing evidence that controlling eczema may actually prevent some of these downstream conditions. Likewise, if we can learn how to prevent eczema so that it never manifested in the first place, we may be able to prevent all of the conditions in the atopic march: food allergies, asthma and allergic rhinitis. Find out more on this episode, hosted in partnership with the Food Allergy Fund 2022 Summit, with guests Dr. Peck Ong from Keck School of Medicine, Dr. Aikaterini Anagnostou from Baylor College of Medicine, and Dr. Jessica Hui from National Jewish Health as we delve into how to prevent atopic conditions, starting with eczema. P.S. If you like our podcast, consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.

Are all moisturizers for eczema created equal? The answer appears to be no!

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0700

Are certain types of moisturizers better than others for eczema? What is the best way to apply it? In this episode we ask our guest speakers, both researchers who have studied this topic, to weigh in: Dr. Tina Sindher, Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics from the Allergy and Clinical Immunology group at Stanford University and Dr. Ian Myles head of the Epithelial Therapeutics Unit at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. P.S. If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.

Research covered in this episode:

Optimizing emollient therapy for skin barrier repair in atopic dermatitis

Pilot study on trilipid cream versus paraffin-based emollient

The effects of common topical exposures on skin bacteria associated with eczema

Frequent moisturizer use in infancy and later development of food allergy

Let's get real: Why are eczema patients struggling worldwide?

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0700

Globally, patients and caregivers are often left to figure out the daunting task of getting eczema under control by medical systems that provide limited direction. In a first-of-its kind collaboration between patient organizations from eight countries coordinated by Global Parents for Eczema Research, we reveal the results of a 3,200 response survey which show how eczema patients are faring and to what extent medical care and treatments are meeting their needs. Our guests are Rachael Manion from the Canadian Skin Patient Alliance, Andrew Proctor from the National Eczema Society in the United Kingdom and Cheryl Talent from the Eczema Association of Australasia.

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Research referred to in this podcast:

Global Patient Initiative to Improve Eczema Care (https://www.improveeczemacare.com/)

A new menu of options for eczema: A first look at newly-approved treatments

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 10:15:00 -0700

In the last few months, a record FOUR new treatments have been approved for eczema in the United States, with other countries considering approval as well. At long last, kids with moderate-to-severe eczema will soon have new, effective options. What are these new treatments, their side effects and what do parents need to know about safety? Tune in as we discuss these emerging treatments with our expert guest speakers: Dr. Amy Paller, Professor of Pediatrics and Chair of the Department of Dermatology at Northwestern University, Chicago; and Dr. Aaron Drucker, Assistant Professor and Dermatologist at the University of Toronto, Canada. (P.S. If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation).

Research & resources relevant to this podcast

Novel treatments for pediatric atopic dermatitis.

New and Emerging Systemic Treatments for Atopic Dermatitis.

Eczema Treatment Comparison Tool

Where do you turn to when you’re at the end of your rope? Mentorship and support for eczema parents

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0700

Studies by Global Parents for Eczema Research have shed light on the many mental health, quality of life, and life course impacts experienced by parents who care for children with moderate to severe eczema. The impacts are often hidden from view and take an enormous toll on caregivers who have the daunting challenge of controlling and managing eczema at all hours of the day and night, often without a break. Healthcare systems usually aren’t set up to address the needs of parents of children with serious medical issues. As a result, parents and caregivers are on their own, stressed, isolated, and without support. In this episode we discuss this common experience with several parents who are part of GPER’s Support for Eczema Caregivers Program, which was launched in 2020 to provide mentoring and listening support to parents and caregivers struggling with the many hidden challenges of living with eczema. For more about this program go to: www.parentsforeczemaresearch.com/caregiver

Research in this episode:

Insights From Caregivers on the Impact of Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis on Families: “I’m Tired, Overwhelmed, and Feel Like I’m Failing as a Mother”

Impact of Childhood Atopic Dermatitis on Life Decisions for Caregivers and Families

The surprising relationship between COVID risk & eczema

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0700

At the beginning of the pandemic, the prevailing theory was that people with eczema would be at higher risk for COVID-19 infection and impacts because so many are using steroid treatments and also suffer from asthma, which many guessed would make respiratory infections worse. But, in a rare bit of good news, the exact opposite may be true! Tune in to learn how the immune system abnormalities associated with eczema may actually protect against COVID-19 infection and how one treatment may reduce the risk of severe symptoms after infection. Our guests are Dr. Emma Guttman-Yassky, Professor of Dermatology and Immunology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; Dr. Benjamin Ungar Assistant Professor of Dermatology also at Mount Sinai; and Dr. Adrian Martineau Professor of Respiratory Infection and Immunity Sciences in the School of Medicine at Queen Mary University of London.

Research referenced in this episode:

COVID-19 Symptoms in Patients Treated with Dupilumab

Risk factors for developing COVID-19

To bathe or not to bathe, that is the question!

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0700

Many parents receive conflicting advice about how and how often to bathe a child with eczema, which leads to confusion around this common ritual. On the one hand, baths can quell itch, and hydrate the skin prior to moisturization; on the other, over-bathing may actually dry out the skin and compromise the skin barrier. In this episode, we delve into the research on bathing and eczema with special guest Dr. Tom Marrs, a pediatric allergist at St Thomas Hospital in the United Kingdom. Dr. Marrs studies how the microbiome influences the development of allergic diseases.

Research referenced in this episode:

Bathing Babies More Than Once a Week Ups Eczema Risk

Frequent Versus Infrequent Bathing in Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Enquiring About Tolerance (EAT) Study

Passing the baton on eczema care from parent to child

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0700

When children are young, parents have to manage their eczema care, and it’s a role that usually lasts a decade or more. But when children reach adolescence, parents must hand over the reins and learn to let go. In this episode we explore some pitfalls with this sometimes-tumultuous period as well as tips and best practices for navigating it with patience and skill. We examine the issues from the perspectives of both parents and young people. Our guest, Dr. Miriam Santer, studies this topic at University of Southampton. Tune in to learn more.

Research mentioned in this episode:

Children’s views and experiences of treatment adherence and parent/child co-management in eczema

Taking charge of eczema self-management: a qualitative interview study with young people with eczema.

Follow your gut! Can fecal microbiota transplants (FMT) be used to treat, or even cure, eczema?

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 07:45:00 -0700

In this episode we explore the promise of an emerging therapy for inflammatory conditions like eczema: transplanting the fecal matter of a healthy person into the gut of a person with eczema. It sounds far-fetched (and even a little off-putting!) but this therapy has actually been around for 2000 years and was first used in ancient China to treat infections. More recently, FMT has been shown to cure difficult-to-treat intestinal infection and is emerging as a promising approach for a range of immune system related conditions (including eczema). Our guest is Dr. Siew Ng, a fecal microbiota transplant researcher with the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Tune in to the dialogue to learn more! (If you like our podcast consider supporting it with a tax deductible donation.)

Research mentioned in this episode:

Gut microbiota restoration through fecal microbiota transplantation: a new atopic dermatitis therapy

Feed Babies Peanuts? The latest science on the intersection of eczema and food allergies

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0700

Parents of children with eczema often end up on a long journey to determine what triggers their child’s flares, and food is often suspected to be a culprit. But restricting food too early can confuse the immune system and create problems later on. In this episode, co-hosted with Susan Weissman of the Food Allergy Fund (FAF) and produced as part of the FAF Annual Summit, we ask our panel of experts how and when to introduce foods like nuts, dairy, eggs, and wheat in children with eczema and what the implications are for the development of food allergy. Our panelists include Dr. Michael Pistiner, Director of Food Allergy Advocacy, Education and Prevention at Massachusetts General Hospital and Dr. Corinne Keet, professor of pediatrics at Johns Hopkins University.

Research referenced in this episode:

The Sunbeam Study on Early Predictors, Mechanisms of Food Allergy and Eczema

Randomized Trial of Peanut Consumption in Infants at Risk for Peanut Allergy

Learning Disability and Eczema

Mon, 17 May 2021 05:00:00 -0700

New research suggests a link between eczema and learning disabilities in children. But how can we tease out the effect of itch, sleep, treatment and other factors to know if the learning disability is real? Join us for this enlightening discussion with Dr. Joy Wan, dermatologist and researcher with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and lead author on a recently published study that looked at this complicated relationship.

Research referenced in this episode:

Association of Atopic Dermatitis Severity With Learning Disability in Children

Increased attention-deficit/hyperactivity symptoms in atopic dermatitis are associated with history of antihistamine use

The Evolving Medicine Cabinet: What do we know about steroid creams and ointments? Plus a look at new “topical” medications on the horizon!

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0700

In this episode we talk about parents’ concerns with topical steroids and what we do and don’t know about the risks and benefits of using this mainstay of treatment. We also explore NEW topical treatments for eczema that may be safer to use long term. Our guest is Dr. Elaine Siegfried, Director of the Division of Pediatric Dermatology At Saint Louis University and Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital and our co-host is parent Angela Tiru. Join us for a deep dive into all the controversial questions and more.

Research referenced in this episode:

Long-term safety of topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors

Bacteriotherapy for Atopic Dermatitis

Treatment of Eczema with a JAK inhibitor cream

It Takes Two To Tango: Exploring the Relationship Between Food Allergies and Eczema

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 05:00:00 -0700

In this episode we explore the bi-directional relationship between food allergies and eczema with two leading pediatric allergists. Our guests are Dr. Anne Marie Singh, an allergy and immunology specialist with a focus in pediatrics with the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, and Dr. Peck Ong, Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the University of Southern California and attending physician in the Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy at Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles. Our conversation explores how and when food allergies can trigger eczema as well as how eczema can serve as the gateway to food allergies; new approaches to treating food allergy; and future directions for preventing both conditions.

Research referenced in this episode:

Controversies in allergy: food testing and dietary avoidance in atopic dermatitis

Scratching the skin primes the gut for allergic reactions to food

This podcast episode was produced in collaboration with the Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis Conference with support from Sanofi Genzyme and Regeneron.

Defining Eczema Types and Preparing for the Precision Medicine Revolution with Dr. Thomas Bieber

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0700

How close are we to targeted treatments designed to each person with eczema? As parents, we often hear from people about a miracle approach that “cured” their or their child’s eczema, only to find that this same approach doesn’t work for us. We are continually reminded of the many different ways that eczema can appear and feel, and how people respond differently to different treatments. Right now, we have a largely “trial and error” approach to treating eczema but what will the future look like as we begin to understand eczema variation, subtypes, and personalized medicine? In this episode of the Eczema Breakthroughs podcast we chat with Professor Thomas Bieber who is chair and director of the department of dermatology and allergy at the University of Bonn in Germany. His cutting edge research focuses on biomarker discovery and precision medicine in allergic skin diseases, and he was a speaker on the topic of risk stratification at the recent Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis global conference in April.

Research referenced in this episode:

Eczema types: Where are we and where should we go?

Tales from the Frontlines: Parents Share their Eczema Stories and Insights for World Atopic Eczema Day

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 18:30:00 -0700

In this episode six parents of children with eczema from around the world share common experiences, challenges and silver linings from their eczema journeys, and dispel myths and misperceptions about the condition. Join us for this special edition of Eczema Breakthroughs recorded for World Atopic Eczema Day (#atopiceczemaday), which takes place annually on September 14th. Episode 7 is co-hosted with Keri Kelley.

Natural Killer Cells

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0700

What do the Iditarod and the immune system have in common? How can we harness the body’s defenses for fighting off infections and invaders to tackle eczema and its complications, including eczema herpeticum. Our guest for this episode of Eczema Breakthroughs is Dr. Brian Kim, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Anesthesiology, Pathology and Immunology, and Co-Director of the Center for the Study of Itch at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. His laboratory focuses on the immune mechanisms that underlie skin inflammation and the sensation of itch, and his groundbreaking translational research is showing new ways for addressing eczema by priming – rather than discouraging – the immune system.

Research referenced in this episode: Revving up the immune system may help treat eczema

Dispatches from the frontlines of the "Battle of the Bacteria" with Dr. Richard Gallo

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0700

There’s a battle underway on the skin between bacteria that make eczema worse and bacteria that can improve eczema symptoms. This fascinating discussion with Dr. Richard Gallo, Chairman of the Department of Dermatology at the University of California-San Diego, explains his ground-breaking research approach which amplifies the presence of “good” bacteria in order to control overgrowth of problematic strains, like Staph aureus, and ultimately help people with eczema.

This podcast was recorded in 2018 as part of GPER’s research meetup series.

Research referenced in this podcast:

Eczema-associated bacteria may be kept in check by a different microbe

The microbiome in patients with atopic dermatitis

Antimicrobials from human skin commensal bacteria protect against Staphylococcus aureus and are deficient in atopic dermatitis

A Roadmap for Navigating the New Eczema Treatment Landscape with Dr. Eric Simpson

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0700

Almost every week we hear about new treatments for eczema, many with names that are hard to pronounce and even harder to remember. After a long drought, we’re suddenly experiencing a downpour in new options, but for parents and patients, it’s hard to navigate this evolving landscape. Dr. Eric Simpson, a dermatologist with OHSU and leading expert on new eczema treatments, walks us through what’s new, what’s coming, and how to make sense of it all.

Research referenced in this podcast:

Systemic Immunomodulatory Treatments for Patients With Atopic Dermatitis

Efficacy and Safety of Dupilumab in Adolescents With Uncontrolled Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis

Therapeutic Pipeline for Atopic Dermatitis: End of the Drought?

This podcast was co-hosted by the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA), and produced in collaboration with the Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis Conferencewith support from Sanofi Genzyme and Regeneron.

Systemic steroids? Antihistamines? A critical look at common treatment practices with Dr. Jonathan Silverberg

Wed, 06 May 2020 16:00:00 -0700

Oral and systemic steroids are used to treat eczema all the time, but are they safe and do they make sense for a long-term chronic disease? Antihistamines are the most commonly prescribed oral treatment for eczema, but do they actually address its symptoms? Dr. Jonathan Silverberg, a dermatologist and researcher with George Washington University, offers some straight talk in this episode of Eczema Breakthroughs. Tune in!

Research referenced in this podcast:

Comorbidities and the impact of atopic dermatitis

Use of systemic corticosteroids for atopic dermatitis

Increased ADHD symptoms in atopic dermatitis are associated with antihistamine use

A systemic review of the safety and efficacy of systemic steroids

This podcast was produced in collaboration with the Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis (RAD) Conference and with support from Sanofi Genzyme and Regeneron.

Messing with the Microbiome -- Insights from Dr. Ian Myles

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 13:00:00 -0700

Why is eczema prevalence on the rise? Are chemicals found in many skin and cosmetic products partially to blame? How do we restore a healthy balance of bacteria on eczema-prone skin? Is the idea that eczema is a “genetic” disease a myth? Learn more in this provocative chat with Dr. Ian Myles, a cutting-edge researcher with the NIH who studies “microbiome transplants” for the treatment of eczema.

This episode was recorded, June 14th, 2019 as part of GPER’s Research Meetup series.

Research referenced in the podcast:

· First-in-human Topical Microbiome Transplantation with Roseomonas Mucosa Bacteria

· Allergy of Disease of Dysbiosis

A Dialogue with Dr. Peter Lio

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 09:00:00 -0700

Can you control itch with acupressure? Do toxins from bacteria drive eczema symptoms? What is the Dr. Aron Regimen and does it work? How should we think about long-term steroid use? Learn more in this interview with a Dr. Peter Lio, Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Founding Director of the Chicago Integrative Eczema Center, and a true pioneer in eczema treatment and research.

This episode was recorded August 16, 2016 as part of GPER’s Research Meetup series.

Research referenced in the podcast:

· Acupressure study

· Review of alternative and complementary treatments for eczema

· Case series study on CASM (or Aron Regimen)

· Review of the relationship between staph and eczema