Dermatology
Astellas Pharma Europe has a long-standing reputation for developing innovative and
effective treatments for a wide range of skin diseases, including atopic dermatitis (eczema)
and acne.
Eczema is a common skin problem characterised by persistent itching that affects up to 20%
of the European population and is an area in which Astellas has a key focus. Eczema can
affect adults and children and cause red, inflamed, itchy patches of skin. People with
eczema can often feel embarrassed about the appearance of their skin. Atopic dermatitis is
one form of atopy, which is caused by an over reactive allergic response to usually harmless
substances such as dust or animal hair. This hypersensitivity leads to the itch-scratch cycle
where people have the sensation of itch (pruritis), followed by scratching and the
subsequent creation of a rash. This intensive itching is also associated with dry and inflamed
skin, together with episodes of weeping, crusting, cracking and scaling.
The clinical course of atopic dermatitis fluctuates and is characterised by periods of pruritis
and eczema flares, ranging from mild to severe. It most often affects infants and young
children, but it can continue into adulthood or even first occur later in life. Atopic dermatitis
can adversely affect a patient’s quality of life, especially during those periods of flares. As
well as a genetic component for developing atopic dermatitis, a wide range of
environmental factors, such as contact allergens, stress, food, skin flora and humidity, play a
role in the development and severity of atopic dermatitis. Atopy disease also includes other
allergic disorders, such as hay fever and allergy-induced asthma.
Backed up by a strong education, training and support programme, Astellas Pharma Europe
aims to solidify its existing reputation in dermatology and continue to be a preferred partner
amongst dermatology healthcare providers. In addition, Astellas Pharma Europe is
committed to working with patients and physicians to provide innovative solutions and
support to those affected by atopic dermatitis and related disorders. Our unique portfolio
provides a trusted range of therapies for the treatment of different skin conditions and is
constantly being reviewed and refined to reflect the latest scientific knowledge and the
changing needs of patients and physicians in the field of dermatology.
Astellas Pharma Europe's SkinSense® portfolio includes a range of treatments for atopic
dermatitis. The aim of SkinSense® is to provide individualised care and improve outcomes in
atopic dermatitis therapy. This programme includes a series of educational tools to help
patients manage and cope with their condition. Based on the success of this concept,
Astellas Pharma Europe is committed to using their expertise in the field of dermatology to
identify and develop new ways to change the lives of dermatology patients with atopic
dermatitis (and other IgE mediated hypersensitivity diseases e.g. allergy/asthma) as well as
other skin conditions such as acne.
