New insights into the role of T cells in atopic dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis

Recently, studies on eczematous skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis, have concentrated on T-cell-mediated immune effector mechanisms. The apoptosis of keratinocytes induced by T cells and mediated by Fas is a crucial event in the transition from activation of the immune system to the manifestation of eczematous dermatitis. Here, we discuss the underlying mechanisms and molecular principles of the T-cell-induced formation of eczema and the focused targeting of these mechanisms by potential therapies.