OBJECTIVES: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is known as the most common dermatologic diagnosis around the globe, affecting nearly 25% of children in developed countries. Approximately half of children with AD are reported to experience significantly impaired quality of life (QOL). The AD–related QOL impact in children has been ranked higher than that of other chronic conditions such as renal disease, diabetes, and cystic fibrosis. Studies show that AD–related QOL impact goes beyond patients’ frustrations due to dry, itchy skin and is linked to increased comorbidities, decreased social functioning, and impaired psychological health. The purpose of this study was to review the QOL impact of AD among children around the world.
METHODS: A targeted MEDLINE literature search (PubMed) was performed to identify studies from a wide range of countries that focused on the QOL impact of AD in children. Data extracted from each study included the country, population characteristics, disease severity, QOL assessment, outcomes, and conclusions.
RESULTS: Data obtained were representative of patients in multiple countries including the United States, Italy, and Brazil. The age of patient population ranged from 0 to 16 years, with an approximately even distribution between males and females. Disease severity was assessed via commonly used measurement scales such as the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) and the Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) tool. Commonly cited QOL instruments employed included the Infant's Dermatitis Quality of Life Index (IDQOL) and the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI). Several studies reported a correlation between disease severity and QOL impact. Pruritus, embarrassment, and mood alterations were reported as factors most impacting QOL.
CONCLUSIONS: Although AD is not categorized as a serious life-threatening condition, it is recognized as a disease that significantly affects multiple domains of QOL. This impact starts as early as infancy, and sometimes persists throughout life, in countries around the world.
