World Congress of Pediatric Dermatology (WCPD 2025) Session Highlights

• The IEC’s global expansion now includes 33 countries, aiming for increased representation and involvement from South America.
• Preclinical atopic dermatitis introduces a new paradigm for early interventions before visible symptoms emerge.
• Early introduction of allergenic foods during breastfeeding can significantly affect food allergy development in children with AD.
• Recognizing unique presentations of AD in children within diverse ethnic backgrounds necessitates bespoke treatment strategies.
• Recent developments in topical therapies like JAK inhibitors show promising results for patients aged 12 and older.
• The psychosocial impacts of AD highlight the importance of patient education and emotional support in treatment paradigms.
• A collaborative model of care that integrates dermatological, psychological, and educational support is essential to effective management.

Key Insights

• Importance of Early Detection: The recognition of preclinical AD underscores the need for healthcare professionals to identify and treat skin changes early. Timely intervention can prevent disease progression and improve long-term outcomes, emphasizing a shift towards proactive care models in dermatology.
• Role of Environmental Factors: Dr. Flohr’s findings suggest that environmental factors, such as the timing of allergenic food introduction, significantly influence the development of allergies. This insight advocates for a more dynamic interaction between dietary practices and dermatological health, prompting a reevaluation of guidelines in pediatric care.
• Cultural Competence in Treatment: Dr. Dhar’s reports illustrate how cultural and ethnic diversity affect the manifestation and treatment of AD. A clinical approach that incorporates regional characteristics and variations will improve diagnosis accuracy and treatment effectiveness.
• Technological Advancements in Topical Treatments: With the emergence of new agents like topical calcineurin inhibitors and JAK inhibitors, clinicians have a broader range of options for managing AD. However, continuing education on these therapies is imperative to ensure that physicians can navigate the evolving landscape of eczema treatment.
• Integrating Psychosocial Support: The highlighted link between AD and mental health stresses the need for multidisciplinary support in treatment. Addressing psychological factors alongside physical symptoms can create a more comprehensive care approach, ultimately benefiting patients and their families.
• Education and Family Involvement: Emphasizing patient education is crucial for adherence to treatment plans, and inclusive strategies that engage family members result in improved patient outcomes. Innovative use of technology can facilitate continuous education and support for families.
• Holistic Care Models: The call for integrated care models acknowledges that effective management of AD requires collaboration among various specialties. Incorporating psychology, dermatology, and community resources will foster a supportive environment conducive to long-term control of atopic dermatitis.

American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) 2025 Global Education Day Session Highlights

• International Eczema Council Celebrates 10 Years - A global initiative promoting education and treatment for atopic dermatitis.
• Dr. Emma Guttman on Alopecia Areata Links - Emphasizes the connection between atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata, alongside future treatment research.
• Epidemiology Insights by Dr. Benjamin Ungar - Discusses alopecia areata’s prevalence and its association with other atopic conditions.
• Emerging Therapeutics - Itinib and delgocitinib highlighted as promising new treatments for atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata.
• Microbiome’s Role - New insights suggest that the microbiome significantly influences treatment outcomes for atopic dermatitis.
• Pediatric Focus - Highlights the influence of alopecia areata on children’s self-esteem and the psychosocial aspects affecting young patients.
• Innovative Treatments - Introduction of JAK inhibitors and novel agents targeting IL-4 and IL-13 pathways showing promise for dual diagnoses.

Key Insights