The Application of Dupilumab to Pediatric Patients Aged 6–11yrs with Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis Whose Disease is Not Adequately Controlled: The Clinical Data so Far

BACKGROUND: While dupilumab has shown efficacy in improving atopic dermatitis, few studies have assessed the long-term clinical data of dupilumab use in pediatric patients. OBJECTIVE: In the present study, we reviewed the current literature to assess reported efficacies, side effects, and risks of using dupilumab to treat atopic dermatitis in pediatric populations. METHODS: Using PRISMA guidelines, the authors searched PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase for studies related to dupilumab treatment for atopic dermatitis in pediatric patients aged 6–11 years old. RESULTS: A total of 512 pediatric patients (ages 6–11) were included. Outcome measures assessed by EASI, SCORAD, P-NRS, IGA and C-DLQI showed significant improvements in scores from those observed at baseline to the last treatment of dupilumab. Most reported adverse effects on dupilumab were conjunctivitis and infection site reactions. All studies reported that dupilumab was well-tolerated. LIMITATIONS: Limitations include the low number of studies available and observation periods of up to 16 weeks, which may be too short to evaluate the drug’s effectiveness and occurrence of adverse effects. This also limits our knowledge on whether there are sustained benefits and/or diminished efficacy as well as long-term side effects. CONCLUSION: Thus far, the data demonstrates dupilumab to be safe and effective in the management of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in children aged 6–11 years. Future studies should evaluate long-term dupilumab use and sustained effects.