The Psychosocial Burden Associated With and Effective Treatment Approach for Atopic Dermatitis: A Literature Review

Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is chronic relapsing inflammatory skin condition that is marked by a high degree of psychosocial and emotional burden in both pediatric and adult populations. In addition to physical symptoms of pruritus and visible skin lesions, AD is associated with decreased quality of life, psychosocial stress, low self-esteem, low work productivity, irritability, decreased physical intimacy, disturbed sleep, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Since AD is a chronic disease, treatment includes achieving long-term disease control for noticeable symptom reduction. For mild symptoms of AD, dermatologists should recommend basic skin care maintenance, use of emollients, and avoidance of triggers. If that fails, treatment with TCS, TCIs, phototherapy, and systemic immunosuppressants is generally advised. Dupilumab is the most effective immunomodulating therapy available for treating moderate-to-severe symptoms associated with AD, including itching, poor sleep quality, anxiety, and depression. Topical agents and phototherapy have been shown to be less efficacious and more suited for achieving remission in mild-to-moderate disease. Overall, the treatment of emotional and psychosocial factors linked with moderate to severe AD remains challenging and calls for more research. The purpose of our review is to explore the extent and severity of psychosocial and emotional burden that patients with atopic dermatitis may potentially experience, and list up-to-date treatment choices available for symptoms associated with AD. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(10): 1046-1050.doi:10.36849/JDD.6328.