Reducing scratching behavior in atopic dermatitis patients using the EMDR treatment protocol for urge: A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis is characterized by an itch-scratch cycle that worsens skin condition and quality of life.
• Psychological interventions show promise in managing scratching behavior.
• The itch-scratch cycle significantly impacts patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment protocol for urge in reducing scratching behavior among atopic dermatitis patients.
• To assess the impact of the EMDR protocol on disease activity, quality of life, and self-control.

Main Methods:

• A multiple baseline across subjects design was employed with six atopic dermatitis patients.
• Scratching behavior was monitored daily via a mobile app and nocturnally via a smartwatch.
• Treatment involved two sessions of the EMDR protocol for urge, with assessments of disease activity, quality of life, and self-control.

Main Results:

• Daytime scratching behavior decreased over time, with a moderate effect size observed post-treatment.
• Disease activity outcomes improved, while patients reported enhanced self-control and quality of life.
• No significant changes were noted in nocturnal scratching behavior following the intervention.

Conclusions:

• The EMDR treatment protocol for urge shows promising results in reducing daytime scratching in atopic dermatitis.
• Further research is warranted to explore this intervention's effectiveness in other pruritic skin conditions like prurigo nodularis.