Nordic European Countries Atopic Dermatitis (NECAD) I: Importance of Concordance With Skincare for Atopic Dermatitis.

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic disease with a dysfunctional skin barrier, requiring continuous management to reduce symptoms and prevent flares. Topical treatment comprises the cornerstone of AD management. The paper’s objective was to summarize current recommendations for skincare in AD, addressing challenges and possible interventions for improved concordance.

Method

The Nordic European Countries Atopic Dermatitis (NECAD) panel of dermatologists discussed surveys, literature, and professional experiences regarding skincare in AD management. Five consensus statements were established to share general insights and suggestions to improve treatment concordance.

Results

Skincare with emollients is the recommended basis of AD management. Concordance to topical treatment is considered a significant challenge in AD. Evidence suggests that newer, more comprehensive emollients are superior to basic emollients regarding both clinical effect and convenience in patients' daily routine. Interventional tools such as evidence-based patient education, AD action plans, and closer physical and/or digital follow-up were suggested.

Conclusion

The effectiveness of topical treatment in AD is highly dependent on the type of emollient used as well as patient concordance. With increasing evidence and focus on patient education, concordance and, thus, treatment outcomes can be improved.  .