Insights from Dr. Mark Kirchhof on innovative eczema therapies
We can dream of a world without eczema and one day finding a cure. According to some experts, that may not only be a dream, but it could one day be a reality.
While there is no cure for eczema just yet, innovative new therapies and ongoing research over the last few years signify an exciting turning point for eczema patients. As we look ahead, the prospect of more effective, personalized treatments tailored to individual needs is a cause for celebration and a renewed sense of optimism and hope for eczema patients.
In a recent Life with Eczema webinar, Ottawa-based dermatologist Dr. Mark Kirchhof tackled the question everyone wants to know: Is a cure for eczema on the horizon?
Is there a benefit to early disease modification?
Researchers have long wondered about the potential impacts of modifying the natural course of eczema, especially in its early stages. Dr. Kirchhof explains, “People with eczema may have a genetic predisposition to easily irritated and inflamed dry skin. Researchers are exploring possibly modifying the disease’s trajectory early on. If we think about a cure, perhaps stopping the initial process would accomplish this goal.”
Could advanced eczema treatments alter the disease progression?
Exciting findings have emerged from the testing of new therapies. One drug still in development has shown evidence that long-term remission is possible in some patients. Dr. Kirchhof notes promising results: “Patients had the drug up to week 16, and then at week 16, they took away the drug in some patients. Remarkably, a significant number of patients with the drug removed completely had little or no skin rash at week 52. Similarly, a large proportion of those patients were itch-free at week 52, indicating the possibility of long-term remission.”
Can we target the root cause of AD with T-cell transfer technology?
T-cell transfer therapy, commonly used in cancer treatments, holds promise for eczema. Dr. Kirchhof highlights early studies targeting memory T-cells, the culprits behind recurrent flare-ups. “While this therapy is still in its infancy, there are some interesting early studies on molecules target these memory T-cells. If we can eliminate them, we could prevent repeat eczema episodes in the recurrent problem areas.”
What does the future of eczema treatment look like?
When asked if a cure for eczema is possible, Dr. Kirchhof emphasized, “It all depends on how we define a cure. Is it no disease with no treatment? Early evidence suggests that, in the near future, that may be a possibility. For many of my patients, long-term remission is now a reality while on therapy, as today’s treatments are so effective that a large percentage of them don’t have any disease. Currently, we can change the natural course of the disease, and to some, that may mean a cure.”
The evolving landscape of eczema research offers newfound hope and optimism as we witness transformative strides in understanding and treating this complex condition.
The Eczema Society of Canada thanks Dr. Mark Kirchhof, MD, PhD, FRCPC, FAAD, for his volunteer contribution to this educational content.
Disclaimer: Information provided in this resource does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to be used as a diagnostic tool. The information is up-to-date at time of publication. All medications, interventions, and treatment plans have risks and benefits, and it is important that individuals discuss their or their child’s specific health care needs with a qualified health care professional.
December 2023
