A role for Th17 cells in the immunopathogenesis of atopic dermatitis?

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease. Both epidermal barrier dysfunction and immunodysregulation are suggested to influence the pathogenesis of AD. AD has been considered a paradigmatic T helper cell (Th) 2-mediated disease, with a switch to a Th1 cell environment during the chronic phase of the disease. Previously unreported findings now suggest a possible role for Th17 cells as well.