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Role of Cyclic Nucleotide Metabolism in the Pathophysiology of Atopic Eczema

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Abstract

A study of the non-allergic, pharmacological mechanisms establishes a separate basic plane of investigation in atopic eczema (AE). Considerable clinical research is focussed at the level of environmental exacerbants while the more fundamental level — the realm of the genetically determined, constitutional predisposition to atopy — is largely ignored. Szentivanyi quoted Rackemann, who recognised this disparity in 1931: “The situation is somewhat analogous to that of a loaded gun. A good deal of knowledge is being obtained about a great variety of triggers (extrinsic and intrinsic causes) which fire the charge; but why is the gun loaded? And, what constitutes the load?” [1, 2]

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Hanifin, J.M., Chan, S.C. (1991). Role of Cyclic Nucleotide Metabolism in the Pathophysiology of Atopic Eczema. In: Ruzicka, T., Ring, J., Przybilla, B. (eds) Handbook of Atopic Eczema. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-02671-7_25

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