Current status of atopic dermatitis in Japan
10.5415/apallergy.2011.1.2.64
- Author:
Masutaka FURUE
1
;
Takahito CHIBA
;
Satoshi TAKEUCHI
Author Information
1. Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan. furue@dermatol.med.kyushu-u.ac.jp
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Atopic dermatitis;
History;
Prevalence;
Topical steroids;
Dose
- MeSH:
Cataract;
Child;
Dermatitis, Atopic;
Dermatology;
Education;
Humans;
Japan;
Phobic Disorders;
Prevalence;
Retinal Detachment;
Skin Diseases;
Skin Diseases, Eczematous;
Steroids;
Tacrolimus
- From:
Asia Pacific Allergy
2011;1(2):64-72
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic or chronically relapsing, severely pruritic, eczematous skin disease. AD is the second most frequently observed skin disease in dermatology clinics in Japan. Prevalence of childhood AD is 12-13% in mainland Japan; however, it is only half that (about 6%) in children from Ishigaki Island, Okinawa. Topical steroids and tacrolimus are the mainstay of treatment. However, the adverse effects and emotional fear of long-term use of topical steroids have induced a "topical steroid phobia" in patients throughout the world. Undertreatment can exacerbate facial/periocular lesions and lead to the development of atopic cataract and retinal detachment due to repeated scratching/rubbing/patting. Overcoming topical steroid phobia is a key issue for the successful treatment of AD through education, understanding and cooperation of patients and their guardians.
