Corticosteroid phobia among parents of children with atopic dermatitis

Abstract

Local glucocorticosteroids play an important role in treatment of exacerbations of atopic dermatitis. However, many parents are afraid of using them, what can lead to poor compliance. This anxiety is mainly induced by adverse effects, such as skin atrophy and potential absorption of steroids into the bloodstream. Parents’ fear of those medicines often arises from information heard from friends and family, but also from pharmacists and general practitioners. Studies show that even a two-day training has positive long-term effects on parental anxiety about glucorticosteroid usage, which proves how important it is to teach patients and their parents about this matter.