Understanding Topical Steroid Withdrawal in Atopic Dermatitis
Author Information
Author(s): ALSTERHOLM Mikael, AF KLINTEBERG Maja, VRANG Sophie, SIGURDARDOTTIR Gunnthorunn, SANDSTRÖM FALK MariHelen, SHAYESTEH Alexander
Primary Institution: Karolinska Institutet, University of Gothenburg, Umeå University, Linköping University
Hypothesis
What are the patient-reported characteristics of topical steroid withdrawal in individuals with atopic dermatitis?
Conclusion
The study provides a detailed characterization of symptoms attributed to topical steroid withdrawal, highlighting significant morbidity among affected individuals.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants reported symptoms like pruritus, sleep disturbance, and anxiety.
- Most participants defined TSW as dependency on topical glucocorticoids.
- Recurring episodes of symptoms attributed to TSW were common among participants.
Takeaway
Some people feel really bad after stopping their skin cream, and this study helps us understand what they go through.
Methodology
An observational cross-sectional study using a questionnaire distributed in a Swedish TSW-themed Facebook group.
Potential Biases
Potential selection biases due to the recruitment method and self-diagnosis of TSW.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data and did not confirm atopic dermatitis diagnoses through physical examination.
Participant Demographics
Most participants were female (95%), aged 18-39 years (74%), and self-diagnosed with TSW (84%).
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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