Abstract :Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disorder characterised by intense itching and recurrent eczematous lesions. It affects not only children but also the adults with prevalence rates varying from 1-20% in different regions of the world. Although the pathogenesis of the disorder is not completely understood, it appears to result from the complex interplay between defects in skin barrier function, environmental and infectious agents, and immune abnormalities. Further, the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) though has been studied in AD and other skin diseases to some extent, but its importance in atopic dermatitis has rarely been investigated. The current therapies for AD involve the use of topical corticosteroids (first-line) and/or topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), first-generation antihistamines and phototherapy to manage the sleep disturbances and skin infections. Inspite of current therapies, AD is associated with potential and undesirable adverse effects. Nanotechnology based therapeutics are being explored by researchers to alleviate the symptoms of AD and have potential applications in topical and systemic therapy. However, still additional innovative research is needed to address the cost-effectiveness and long-term safety of these nanoparticles. This short review discusses the scope of nanotechnology with special emphasis on the reports on lipidic and polymeric nanoparticles of the last half decade for the treatment of atopic dermatitis.