Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition requiring long-term management to maintain remission and prevent relapse. Appropriate use of topical anti-inflammatory medications is an important factor in improving symptoms in patients with AD. This study aimed to investigate the treatment methods for maintaining remission and application of anti-inflammatory topical therapy. METHODS: This observational study was conducted in October 2022, using medical claims data from DeSC Healthcare Inc., linked with survey data collected from users of kencom®, a health promotion application. Eligible patients were adults aged ≥ 19 years with a confirmed AD diagnosis and prescription history. The survey evaluated (1) the actual treatment situation during the remission maintenance phase; and (2) instructions, actual status and adherence for application of anti-inflammatory topical therapy. RESULTS: A total of 626 patients who answered the kencom® survey and met eligibility criteria were included. Of these, 42.3% were instructed to stop medication once eczema improved, while 34.2% were instructed to continue during remission. Regarding instructions for the amount applied, the most common response was "No specific instructions" (44.2%), followed by "Fingertip-unit (FTU)" (27.2%). In actual practice, "FTU" was the most common amount (42.2%). Regarding application area, the most frequent instruction and actual practice were "Apply only to areas with eczema with remaining inflammation" at 52.6% and 62.5%, respectively, followed by "Apply not only to the eczema or remaining inflamed areas but also the surrounding areas" at 24.0% and 37.2%. Regarding the application method, "Apply thinly" was the most common instruction and actual practice at 32.7% and 48.4%, respectively. Treatment adherence rates were generally high, at over 60%. CONCLUSION: Guidance from healthcare professionals has a crucial role in the proper use of topical therapies for AD. It is essential to ensure that topical medications are used properly to help patients achieve their treatment goals.