A Questionnaire Survey for Proper Education of Atopic Dermatitis

Doh, Eun Jin; Choi, Mira; Lim, Ji Soo; Yoon, Hyun Sun; Lee, Dong Hun; Kim, Kyu Han

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Therapeutic education is important for successful management of atopic dermatitis (AD).
OBJECTIVE
To provide effective therapeutic education, clear common misunderstandings, and answer questions regarding AD among patients and caregivers.
METHODS
A questionnaire survey was conducted for patients and caregivers who visited the Department of Dermatology at Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea, regarding the course, etiology, and management of AD.
RESULTS
Among the 327 subjects who participated in the study, only 35.2% were aware of the natural course of AD, which usually improves with age. Many subjects (53.2%) misinterpret AD relapse as resistance to topical steroids. We found that 87.8% of subjects were under the impression that improvement in a patient's immunity can improve the symptoms of AD. Dietary restriction was considered an essential management strategy, and 59.0% of subjects agreed to delay the initiation of weaning foods. Most subjects did not have accurate information about cleansing methods, and 30.9% of subjects reported that they used only water without any cleanser. We noted that 47.5% of subjects obtained information regarding AD from medical doctors who they considered the most reliable sources (82.5%). Subjects preferred printed materials (41.3%) over seminars or video-clips to obtain educational information.
CONCLUSION
Therapeutic education regarding the course, etiology, and management of AD using printed materials put together by physicians would be a valuable tool for the effective management of AD. Institutional support such as educational programs covered by the National Health Insurance Service is required.