Management of dupilumab-associated conjunctivitis in atopic dermatitis

J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2019 May;17(5):488-491. doi: 10.1111/ddg.13809. Epub 2019 Mar 15.

Abstract

Since September 2017, the monoclonal antibody dupilumab (Dupixent® ) has been approved in the EU for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. By blocking IL-4 and IL-13 signaling pathways, dupilumab improves both objective signs and subjective symptoms of the disease. Blocking of the IL-4aRα subunit leads to improvement of the skin's barrier function and reduction in Th2-mediated inflammation. While the rate of adverse events on dupilumab is generally low, mild-to-moderate conjunctivitis associated with redness as well as a burning and foreign body sensation has been reported in up to 28 % of patients. Treatment options include topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors. The present review highlights the clinical presentation of dupilumab-associated conjunctivitis and addresses pharmacological and non-pharmacological options available for the treatment of this clinically highly relevant condition.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / adverse effects*
  • Calcineurin Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic
  • Conjunctivitis / chemically induced*
  • Conjunctivitis / drug therapy
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / drug therapy*
  • Dermatologic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Ophthalmic Solutions / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Calcineurin Inhibitors
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Ophthalmic Solutions
  • dupilumab