D2.354 - Questionnaire survey of new treatments for atopic dermatitis

In recent years, new topical agents with novel mechanisms of action and biological agents have emerged for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD), increasing the range of available treatment options and enhancing expectations for higher efficacy. 

Objective: The opinions of children with AD and their guardians regarding treatments were investigated by a questionnaire survey.

Method: A questionnaire survey was conducted in children aged 5 years and older and the guardians of children aged 6 months and older who visited the pediatric department of our hospital from February to April 2023.

Responses were obtained from 55 pediatric patients (average age: 9.7 years) and 81 guardians (average age of their children: 7.4 years). When asked whether they would be able to keep taking daily oral medication if they are instructed to do so, 52% of the children responded, “If it makes me feel much better, I will be able to do it,” while 7% answered, “I will not.” When asked whether they would accept injections if they be suggested as treatment, 44% of children said, “If it makes me feel much better, I will,” while 20% responded, “I will not.” When guardians were asked if they would consider systemic treatment if they consider topical medications to be ineffective, 24% said they would opt for systemic treatment, 60% said they would decide after hearing the doctor’s explanation, and 16% said they would not choose systemic treatment. In addition, questions were asked about factors that may influence the introduction of systemic treatment to explore the attitudes of the children and their guardians. 

It is important to provide clear and accurate information about new treatment options and to offer guidance and interventions for appropriate treatment selection and decision-making in consideration of the feelings of children and the preferences of their guardians.