Clinical vs. Anecdotal Evidence - Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis

Overview

In dermatology, topical anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids, are the mainstay treatment of managing patients with atopic dermatitis. However, caregivers are often apprehensive about choosing a topical steroid for a variety of reasons. Many caregivers are not aware that clinical trial evidence for these medications exist, and instead may rely on anecdotal evidence in choosing to take these medications. Because fear of the drug is inherently subjective, it can be modified with appropriate reassurance and presentation of evidence. The goal of the study is to learn whether caregivers are more confident in treating a child's atopic dermatitis after being presented with varying amounts of information.

Atopic dermatitis is the most common chronic, inflammatory dermatologic condition in young children, with a prevalence approaching 25% in some countries. Topical corticosteroids, the mainstay treatment in managing atopic dermatitis, generally function to decrease inflammation and suppress the immune response. Topical corticosteroids are grouped into distinct categories based on their degree of potency, including very high potency (Clobetasol propionate), high potency (triamcinolone acetonide), medium potency (fluocinonide), and low potency agents (desonide). Caregivers are often apprehensive about choosing a topical steroid for a variety of reasons. These include hearing negative information about the drug from friends or family, being nervous about treatment, or seeing the drug or its side effects negatively portrayed in the media. Many parents/caregivers are not aware that clinical trial evidence for these medications exist, and instead may rely on anecdotal evidence in choosing to take these medications. Because fear of the drug is inherently subjective, it can be modified with appropriate reassurance and presentation of evidence. By understanding what kind of information will allow caregivers to be confident in their decision to use a topical corticosteroid, dermatologists may improve treatment adherence and outcomes. The goal of the study is to learn whether caregivers are more confident in treating a child's atopic dermatitis after being presented with varying amounts of information about the treatment.