The role of cutaneous dendritic cells in the immunopathogenesis of atopic dermatitis.

Banfield, C C; Callard, R E; Harper, J I · Br J Dermatol · 2001

review · Level V

Where this comes from

Abstract

We review the immunology of atopic dermatitis (AD) and focus attention on the role of cutaneous dendritic cells. AD is a complex immune-mediated skin disorder characterized by the recruitment of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells into the skin. T-helper (Th) 2-type cytokines are dominant in acute AD skin, while both Th1- and Th2-type cytokines are present in chronic AD. Cutaneous dendritic cells, which are present in increased numbers within AD skin, are believed to play a key part in the activation of T cells in the skin. They may also help to determine the pattern of cytokines produced by activated effector T cells.

Medical subject headings