Concern Looms for Eczema Sufferers

A recent multinational study confirmed that the majority of eczema sufferers and their caregivers are constantly worried about their next flare-up and that 75% do not feel confident enough to manage their condition successfully. The International Study of Life with Atopic Eczema (ISOLATE) included 2000 participants from 8 countries and presented results from a 400-patient subanalysis at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology. Among the participants surveyed, 80% of patients and 73% of caregivers responded that control of their eczema would be the biggest improvement to their quality of life. However, only 24% of patients and 27% of caregivers admitted they felt they could adequately manage their eczema.

Most patients and caregivers surveyed reported wanting a nonsteroidal treatment that could either prevent a recurrence of eczema or at least lessen its severity. Most respondents also noted that while their physicians provided information on eczema, they had neglected to address the emotional impact of the disease.

Ms. Farley is a freelance medical writer based in Wakefield, RI.