A recent study presented at the 2025 Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis (RAD) conference highlights the effectiveness of dupilumab (Dupixent) in treating atopic dermatitis (AD) among adolescents and adults with skin of color. The DISCOVER phase 4 trial, which is the first of its kind to focus on a sizable group of patients with darker skin tones, included 120 participants aged 12 and older with moderate-to-severe AD. Notably, a significant majority of the participants—82% were Black, while the remainder included Asian, Native American, and other ethnicities.
The results demonstrated that 76% of subjects achieved a 75% or greater improvement in disease severity, a benchmark known as EASI-75, at the 24-week mark. Improvements were evident as early as two weeks after treatment initiation. Alongside reduced severity, 53% of patients reported a meaningful decrease in itch, and concerns related to skin dryness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation were also significantly alleviated.
Dr. Andrew Alexis, a professor of clinical dermatology, emphasized the substantial impact of atopic dermatitis on quality of life for patients with skin of color. He pointed out that the findings from the DISCOVER trial not only underscore dupilumab’s efficacy but also contribute to a better understanding of atopic dermatitis within this underserved demographic.
In the United States, dupilumab is widely approved for various uses, indicating its versatility in addressing multiple chronic conditions, including asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis, in both adults and children. The trial’s results reinforce the potential for dupilumab to offer relief to individuals with AD and associated skin complications, paving the way for improved management of this chronic condition.
This study marks a hopeful advancement in dermatology, particularly for patients with skin of color, who have historically faced challenges in effective treatment options. The positive outcomes of the trial may lead to a greater focus on tailoring therapies for diverse populations in the future.