The atopic dermatitis market is one of the largest segments of the dermatology disease industry in terms of patient population. However, sales in this market are relatively small, primarily because of generics competition.

Symptomatic treatment of atopic dermatitis relies primarily on the use of topical formulations (corticosteroids and immunosuppressants). Physicians consider current oral treatments to have limited value in the treatment of atopic dermatitis; antihistamines are the primary class of oral agents used.

Atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by itchy skin lesions and rashes. Though the condition affects people of all ages, it is primarily common among infants and children (Bowcock and Cookson, 2004).

Due to its chronic and relapsing nature, atopic dermatitis presents a global public health concern, with reported lifetime prevalence ranging between 10%-20% in children and 1%-3% in adults (Larsen and Hanifin, 2002).

In general, the prevalence of atopic dermatitis is increasing worldwide, with high prevalence in western and developed nations compared with other parts of the world. However, recent trends demonstrate a gradual rise in prevalence in developing countries and plateauing prevalence in developed countries (Asher et al., 2006).

Although atopic dermatitis is not life-threatening, it has a huge impact on economic burden and quality of life of individuals (Carroll et al., 2005).

According to a recent report, ‘EpiCast Report: Atopic Dermatitis – Epidemiology Forecast to 2022,’ prevalent cases within the atopic dermatitis market in the 9MM (US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, Japan, China, and India) will increase from 132.28 million in 2012 to 132.71 million cases in 2022 at an annual growth rate (AGR) of 0.10%.

Some of the factors associated with an increased risk of atopic dermatitis include small family size, higher socioeconomic and educational levels regardless of ethnicity, movement from rural to urban environment, and increased use of antibiotics.

Research has indicated that there is a predominance of type-2 helper T cells (Th2) in atopic dermatitis. Higher number of cases would involve the increased uptake of therapeutics, thereby increasing the growth of the market.

In 2012, China and India combined contributed 83.04 million cases, comprising more than 60% of the total prevalent cases in the 9MM. (9MM) (US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, Japan, China, and India).

For more information on the atopic dermatitis market, see the latest research: Atopic Dermatitis Market

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