Skin Fragility: Perspectives on Evidence-based Therapies

Abstract

The term skin fragility disorders describes a group of conditions in which the structural integrity of the skin is compromised and its resistance to external shear forces diminished. Skin fragility can have different causes, ranging from genetic variations to inflammatory or physical phenomena. The genetic skin fragility disorders, collectively called epidermolysis bullosa, serve as a paradigm for the study of causes and mechanisms of skin fragility. Recent biomedical research has revealed substantial genetic heterogeneity of the epidermolysis bullosa group, delivered ample new knowledge on its pathophysiology, and facilitated the design of evidence-based therapeutic strategies. The therapy development process extends from in vitro testing to preclinical validation in animal models, and clinical trials. This article reviews different approaches to curative and symptom-relief therapies, and appraises their status and perspectives for clinical implementation.