Pilot testing and validation of an atopic dermatitis screening and evaluation questionnaire

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Epidemiology
• Medical Informatics

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent skin condition with increasing global incidence.
• Existing screening methods for AD lack cost-effectiveness, patient self-administration, and accuracy in differentiating from other dermatoses.
• There is a need for a validated, remote screening tool for atopic dermatitis diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a self-administered questionnaire for screening and evaluating atopic dermatitis (AD).
• To create a cost-effective and accurate instrument for remote AD diagnosis.
• To distinguish individuals with AD from those without AD using a novel screening tool.

Main Methods:

• A 13-question atopic dermatitis screening and evaluation questionnaire (ADSEQ) was developed through literature review and expert consultation.
• The ADSEQ was administered to 121 dermatology patients (with and without AD).
• Statistical analysis included calculating sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, logistic regression, and ROC curve analysis.

Main Results:

• A scoring algorithm combining itching (Q7) and image-based questions (Qpic) achieved high sensitivity (96.3%) and specificity (84%) for AD diagnosis.
• Cronbach's alpha was 0.71, indicating acceptable internal consistency for the ADSEQ.
• Alternative algorithms using Qpic with past diagnosis or family history questions also demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusions:

• The developed questionnaire (ADSEQ) is a valid and reliable self-administered tool for distinguishing atopic dermatitis from other skin conditions.
• The pilot study suggests the ADSEQ's utility in remote and clinical settings for AD screening.
• Further validation may enhance its role in epidemiological studies and patient self-management.