In July 2013 a group of experts in the field of AD met to share their clinical experiences at the Pierre Fabre Research and Development Centre in Toulouse, and this supplement issue was subsequently commissioned by Avene Dermatological Laboratories to communicate the presentation content to the dermatological community.

It consists of eight review articles, ranging from diagnosis and screening through to optimizing outcomes and patient education. Our better understanding of the molecular basis of AD and in particular its roots in the immune system has had profound effects on pharmacological research and resulting treatment strategies for the condition.

As a result, we have the opportunity to provide novel therapeutic approaches for our patients, which will ultimately reduce the number and severity of flares, and ultimately improve patients’ impaired quality of life.