Effectiveness of a multidisciplinary itch-coping training programme in adults with atopic dermatitis.
The short- and longer-term effectiveness of a brief, multidisciplinary itch-coping group training scheme in adults with atopic dermatitis was evaluated. Clinical severity scores (Eczema Area and Severity Index) and validated self-report measures were obtained in a waiting-list control condition (n=30) and a treatment condition (n=61) at pre- and post-treatment and in the treatment condition at 3- and 12-month follow-ups. Relative to the control condition, all post-treatment measures showed improvements in terms of enhanced skin status, reduced itching and scratching and improved itch-coping patterns. In the treatment condition, the changes were sustained or further improved at both follow-ups. Also, the dermatological healthcare use was significantly reduced during the follow-up periods, in terms of fewer visits to the dermatologist and decreased use of topical corticosteroids and itch-relieving medication (histamine antagonists). The brief multidisciplinary itch-coping programme in adults with atopic dermatitis considerably reduced itch-scratching patterns, improved their skin status and reduced the use of dermatological care, both in the short and longer term.
Evers
Andrea W M
AW
Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. a.evers@mps.umcn.nl
Duller
Piet
P
de Jong
Elke M G J
EM
Otero
Marisol E
ME
Verhaak
Christianne M
CM
van der Valk
Pieter G M
PG
van de Kerkhof
Peter C M
PC
Kraaimaat
Floris W
FW
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000628:therapy*; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D003879:Dermatologic Agents