Home care management instruction of pediatric atopic dermatitis in members of the Japanese Society of Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Abstract

[Objective] This study aimed to clarify the current state and burden of home care management instruction in the treatment of pediatric atopic dermatitis.

[Methods] A web-based survey was conducted in December 2024 targeting physicians who are members of the Japanese Society of Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology. The survey asked regarding the content and burden of home care management instruction.

[Results] The analysis included 688 participants (response rate; 17.1%). Of these, 94.3% reported home care management instruction, with no significant differences between hospital- and clinic-based physicians. The frequency of instruction was "as needed" for 56.6%, and the average duration was "5-15 min" for 59.4%. Experience with biologics and oral Janus kinase inhibitors was reported by 57.8%, and 60.7% of these patients received regular home care management instruction. Although 97.6% of respondents felt that the instruction contributed positively to treatment outcomes, 87.1% reported experiencing a burden related to it. The most significant factor contributing to this burden was the "time for instruction", with the highest adjusted odds ratio of 15.4 in the multivariate analysis.

[Conclusion] Most responding physicians instructed home care management of pediatric atopic dermatitis and feel it is beneficial. However, there is a significant burden associated with the time and effort required for such instruction.