Autoallergy in atopic dermatitis.

The term autoallergy denotes autoimmunity accompanying an atopic disease, with antigen-specific IgE as a hallmark. This phenomenon is discussed to contribute to a chronification of the disease and to shape the immune response in chronic atopic dermatitis (AD). In this review, we highlight recent insights into the autoallergic inflammation in AD. Different mechanisms underlying the allergenicity of autoallergens are discussed at the moment: intrinsic functions modulating the immune system as well as molecular mimicry may influence the allergenic potential of these proteins. Finally, the role of specific T cells is discussed. Hradetzky S, Werfel T, Roesner LM. Autoallergy in atopic dermatitis. Allergo J Int 2015; 24:16-22 .