Is There a Need to Educate Patients with Atopic Dermatitis in Baseline Therapy?

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The baseline therapy of atopic dermatitis (AD) includes emollient therapy, prevention of triggering factors and proper patients' education. Appropriate level of education about AD among patients is crucial for successful treatment of the disease. AIMS: To compare and evaluate the level of knowledge about baseline therapy in atopic dermatitis (AD) between the adults with AD and the parents of children with AD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult patients with AD (n=180) and parents of children with AD (n=106) completed an original questionnaire covering issues of emollient therapy and bathing. For statistical comparison a chi - square test was used with significance level of 0,05. RESULTS: With significance level of 0,05, the chi - square test showed a statistically significant difference comparing both groups. 52,38% adults and 68,73% parents proved to know the principles of basic therapy (p<0,05). 55,00% adults and 50,00% parents have not been informed how to apply emollients appropriately (p>=0,05). 75,56% and 74,53%, respectively, seek additional education about it (p>=0,05). 63,89% adults and 49,06% parents have not been informed about the principles of bathing (p<0,05). 70,00% and 74,54%, respectively, expect more comprehensive explanation of bathing rules (p>=0,05). CONCLUSIONS: Adults with AD have lesser knowledge about baseline therapy than parents of children with AD. Both groups express a very strong need for education about baseline therapy in AD.