Transepidermal Water Loss in Patients of Eczematous External Otitis / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

The difference of transepidermal water loss(TEWL) between normal persons and patients with eczematous external otitis was identified by statistical analysis. In this study, 20 healthy volunteers without history of atopic dermatitis and 20 patients with eczematous external otitis were participated. Measurements were performed at ear lobes and other various anatomical sites(proximal forearm, mid forearm, distal forearm, palm, upper back, lower back, leg(shin), leg(calf), and sole) by Tewameter TM 210(Courage;Rhazaka, Koln, Germany). Prior to the procedure, subjects stayed still for 30 minutes in the room where the temperature was controlled(18-23degreesC) with a relative humidity of 35-45%. The results are summarized as follows1) TEWL values at ear lobes were higher in patients with eczematous external otitis than in normal persons(p<0.05). 2) TEWL values at other various anatomical sites except upper back were higher in patients with eczematous external otitis than in normal persons(p<0.05).