Fellow
Rebecca Urbonas, BS
Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine
Mentor
Joy Wan, MD, MSCE
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Overview
Atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, is a highly prevalent skin condition among children that significantly impacts their physical and emotional well-being. While recent advances in systemic therapies have greatly improved the treatment of severe eczema, it remains unclear how long patients should continue these treatments, given eczema’s recurrent nature and potential for natural improvement. Our goal is to fill this knowledge gap by investigating the feasibility of reducing systemic medications in children with eczema. This involves conducting a pilot trial to explore various methods of discontinuing dupilumab, a systemic medication newly approved for eczema patients as young as 6 months old, and establishing a registry for children undergoing systemic therapies for eczema to enable long-term data collection. By investigating when and how to adjust systemic treatments, our research aims to facilitate informed decision-making for pediatric eczema patients and their families amidst expanding treatment options.
Status
This project was funded through a 2024 PeDRA Research Fellowship Grant.
