The real impact of atopic eczema

Atopic (or allergic) eczema is an extremely common condition that affects1:

15-20% of children and 2-10% of adults

As a result eczema places a considerable burden on healthcare resources, and it is likely that you will see a significant number of cases in your daily practice, whether you work in primary, secondary or intermediary care setting.

Living with eczema can have real impact on the quality of life and emotional wellbeing of your patients, affecting their ability and confidence to lead a normal life; concentrating at work or school, participating in sports and leisure activities, developing social skills and engaging in relationships.2

Recent guidance from NICE and the PCDS/BAD has placed increasing focus on patient-centred care, a stepwise approach to management and education to encourage self-management of eczema flares.1,3. These measures are aimed at improving patient care, and may help reduce repeat consultations and the need for referral to secondary care.

References:
  1. 1.Primary Care Dermatology Society & British Association of Dermatologists (2007) Guidelines for the management of atopic eczema. (PCDSBAD-Eczema.pdf Accessed November 2007)
  2. 2.National Eczema Society (2004) International Study Of Life with Atopic Eczema (ISOLATE) Data on file, National Eczema Society. www.eczema.org/impact.htm
  3. 3.NICE (2007) Atopic eczema in children. Management of atopic eczema in children from birth up to the age of 12 years. Clinical Guideline 57, London, December 2007

Date of preparation: May 2009 / Code: E&D 09-013