Topical Corticosteroid Phobia Among Atopic Eczema Patients And Their Caregivers: Survey In Two Dermatology Outpatient Clinics In Malaysia
- Author:
Noorlaily MN
;
Baba R
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Steroid;
phobia;
eczema
- From:Malaysian Journal of Dermatology
2015;34(2):2-5
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction: Steroid phobia has been recognized as a hindrance to successful treatment in patients
with atopic eczema. Data on this phenomenon is lacking in Malaysia. This study investigates the
prevalence and reasons for topical corticosteroid phobia in patients with atopic eczema and their
caregivers.
Methods: A questionnaire-based study was conducted in both children and adult patients suffering
from atopic eczema in two government dermatology clinics at Hospital Kuala Lumpur and Hospital
Kota Bharu between May and July 2011.
Results: Of the 77 respondents, 39% were worried about using topical corticosteroids for their eczema
with 13% totally avoiding steroids. The most common reason for this fear was concern about skin
thinning (27.3%) followed by concern on changes in skin colour (14.3%), scarring (13%) and stretch
marks (13%). Steroid phobia was significantly higher in those with tertiary education (p=0.005).
Conclusion: Steroid phobia appears to be a significant problem in Malaysia especially in those
with higher educational background. Despite these concerns, the patients’ compliance to topical
corticosteroids is still reasonably good.
