Consensus statements on pediatric atopic dermatitis from dermatology and pediatrics practitioners in Japan: Goals of treatment and topical therapy

Abstract

Background: Pediatric atopic dermatitis (PAD) is a pluricausal disease and is frequently seen in dermatological and pediatric practice. Therefore, it is important to find common views in clinical practice and to promote consensus among practitioners. Aiming to obtain common views among dermatologists and pediatricians and to disseminate them widely in clinical practice, we held the PAD Consensus Forums described herein.

Methods: Questionnaire surveys of treatment goals and drug therapy were conducted to prepare topics for discussion at the PAD Consensus Forums. Reaching consensus was defined as agreement among at least 70% of the participants.

Results: As a result of discussion among 24 dermatologists and 25 pediatricians, consensus was obtained on 7 topics. These topics configure 3 consensus of treatment goals (Attainment targets were divided into the short/medium term and the long term. Attainment targets were associated with the primary evaluation domains of the Harmonising Outcome Measures for Eczema (HOME) roadmap, etc.) and 4 consensus of drug therapy (The number of applications of topical anti-inflammatory drugs in the acute phase and selection and ideal intervals between applications of topical anti-inflammatory drugs in proactive therapy, etc.).

Conclusions: The consensus is expected to help practitioners set appropriate treatment goals in clinical practice and facilitate the choice of drugs for treatment.

Keywords: Atopic dermatitis; Child; Consensus; Dermatologist; Pediatrician.