THERAPEUTIC HOTLINE: Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist montelukast in the treatment of atopic dermatitis

Leukotrienes are potent proinflammatory mediators derived from arachidonic acid through the 5-lipoxygenase pathway. Experimental data suggest a role for cysteinyl leukotrienes in the pathogenesis of atopy giving a rationale for its use in asthma, allergic rhinitis, and chronic urticaria management. A few clinical observations and small trials suggest that montelukast may be used in an adjunctive manner as an effective therapeutic option for all age categories affected by moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Our own observations proved that montelukast as a prospective corticosteroid-sparing option in the complex therapeutic strategy of corticosteroid-dependent atopic dermatitis patients, even in the severe erythrodermic cases.