Upcoming AAD Pediatric Guidelines and Tips for Kids in Dermatology, With Peter Lio, MD

HCPLive’s editorial team spoke on-site with Peter Lio, MD, clinical assistant professor of dermatology and pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, following his session presented at the Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis (RAD) Conference 2026 in Nashville.

Lio, whose presentation focused on the development of pediatric-specific guidance and the considerations that distinguish care of younger patients from the treatment of adults with atopic dermatitis, highlighted the unique challenges of managing atopic dermatitis in children.

“We are lucky that we have had some really great guideline updates in the last couple of years, and then some even further updates in the adult guidelines just in the last year, because things are moving so quickly,” Lio said. “But there's a gap, because they often do not really focus on pediatrics, and that's important because the rules do not always apply equally.”

In his HCPLive interview, Lio noted that the rapid evolution of the atopic dermatitis treatment landscape has led to several important guideline updates. He emphasized the lack of current recommendations centered on non-adult populations, noting the need for tailored guidance specifically for pediatric patients. A major theme of Lio’s discussion was the long-term perspective required when treating children with atopic dermatitis. Unlike adult patients, families of young children often have questions about how long treatment may be needed and what long-term implications systemic therapies could carry.

Additionally, concerns related to development, growth, school performance, and potential adverse effects commonly represent a notable concern in treatment discussions. Due to this fact, he believes clinicians in dermatology must be prepared to address not only the immediate benefits and risks of medications and management strategies but also broader questions about the future course of therapy.

Lio also highlighted the importance of shared decision-making in pediatric dermatology, noting caring for children with atopic dermatitis can often be a balancing act involving everyone, including patients and their caregivers. Even very young children may have strong views related to treatment preferences, particularly when it comes to injections, topicals, or general drug tolerability. Parents can also diverge on their views regarding the same topics.

Lio highlighted his own view suggesting the successful management of one’s disease often depends on the use of a collaborative approach designed to keepsthe child’s well-being at the center of decision-making. Open communication and help to families navigating questions surrounding safety, efficacy, and long-term care, was described as key for clinicians. They can build trust and improve treatment adherence.

Disclosures: Relevant disclosures for Lio include AbbVie, Almirall, Arbonne, ASLAN Pharmaceuticals, Dermavant, Eli Lilly and Company, Galderma, Johnson & Johnson, L’Oreal, LEO Pharma, Pfizer, Regeneron/Sanofi Genzyme and others.

References

1. Lio P, Eichenfield L. Session 8: Anticipated Updates in Pediatric AD Guidelines (AAD 2026 Release). Session presented at: 2026 Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis Conference; June 17-19, 2026; Nashville, TN.