Publication:

Clinical practice for the management of atopic dermatitis (eczema) patients attending dermatology outpatient department at a tertiary health care centre

Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic pruritic inflammatory skin condition that affects all age groups. It is one of the most common skin disorders in developed countries. Symptoms are eczematous papules, itch and associated consequences, like sleep disturbances that significantly have an impact on quality of life of the patients. The standard therapies for AD consist of the use of topical corticosteroids, topical applications of emollients, and oral formulations. The present study was undertaken with a view to find out the treatment patterns for AD in patients visited dermatology outpatient department (OPD) in a tertiary care teaching hospital.

Methods A prospective observational study conducted for a period of three months at OPD of dermatology in tertiary care hospital (GGH-RIMS), Kadapa. A total of 45 prescriptions were collected after obtaining a proper informed consent from recruited patients.

Results In a total of 45 prescriptions analysis, it was found that there was a female predominance with a female to male ratio of 2:1. AD was more prevalent in the age group of 20-29 years. Topical preparations were highly prescribed i.e., 90 utilizations when compared to oral formulations having 60 utilizations. Levocetirizine was the most commonly prescribed drug.

Conclusions This study provides prescription patterns of AD in a tertiary care hospital. Cost can be minimized by generic prescribing. Treatment strategies to be individualized having strong emphasis on patient education. Self-management strategies also optimize outcomes and reduces unnecessary costs associated with management of AD.