Transformative Strategies for Atopic Dermatitis Patients

“Patch testing can seem daunting, but it’s a game changer for many patients,” shared Dr. Walter Liszewski at the 2025 Elevate-Derm Summer Conference in the picturesque Park City, Utah. As a leading dermatologist and educator at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Liszewski illuminated critical advancements in managing atopic dermatitis (AD), particularly through thorough patch testing and effective use of JAK inhibitors.

The Power of Comprehensive Patch Testing

In his illuminating session, "Contact Dermatitis Conundrums," Liszewski highlighted the vital role of comprehensive patch testing for those grappling with chronic dermatitis. He warned against reliance on limited commercial testing kits like the TRUE Test, which may overlook crucial allergens due to their restrictive panels. For patients who continue to experience flare-ups, he strongly recommended seeking specialists for more extensive allergen assessments.

Post-patch testing responsibility doesn’t end at mere results. Clinicians should meticulously guide patients in understanding their everyday products to identify hidden allergens, particularly those elusive fragrance compounds that are often camouflaged in labels. Without proactive avoidance strategies, even the most accurate patch tests may not yield genuine clinical improvements.

Expert Tips on JAK Inhibitor Implementation

Turning to JAK inhibitors, Liszewski's session, "JAK Inhibitors: Practical Tips for Integration Into Practice," provided valuable insights into their clinical application for AD treatment. Despite existing black box warnings, he argued fervently against a blanket prohibition for at-risk demographics, such as patients over 50 or those on oral contraceptives. With vigilant monitoring, JAK inhibitors can deliver remarkable and rapid results, especially for those unresponsive to traditional biologics.

Liszewski encouraged healthcare providers to feel confident in escalating dosages of JAK inhibitors like Rinvoq and Cibinqo, citing large studies that show minimal upticks in side effects paired with significant gains in quality of life metrics, including reduced itch and improved sleep. Notably, every patient transitioning from biologics to JAK therapy expressed satisfaction with their decision, underscoring the importance of personalized treatment pathways.

A Cautious Yet Optimistic Outlook

“Increasing the dose of medications such as Rinvoq or Cibinqo leads to minimal safety concerns while substantially enhancing patients' lives in terms of itch relief and sleep quality,” Liszewski concluded, leaving the audience with a sense of hope and optimism.