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When Itchiness Is Not Enough: A Qualitative Study on the Effects of Pain in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Ashley M Snyder;
Vanina L Taliercio;
Adelheid U Brandenberger;
Bianca E Rich;
Lisa B Webber;
Abram P Beshay;
Joshua E Biber;
Rachel Hess;
Jamie L W Rhoads;
Aaron M Secrest
ABSTRACT
Background:
Pain is an underappreciated symptom of atopic dermatitis (AD) that can affect patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQL).
Objective:
To understand the impact of pain on AD patients and their family members and recognize how this symptom affects HRQL.
Methods:
We conducted focus groups and interviews with AD patients and family members. Researchers independently coded transcripts and reached a consensus on major themes.
Results:
Four themes emerged. (1) Itchiness and pain can be intertwined: Pain was often caused by or otherwise associated with itchiness and could result from open sores and excoriated skin. (2) Pain characteristics: Pain was most often described as burning. Other descriptors included mild, persistent discomfort; stinging; and stabbing. (3) Pain impact: Pain negatively affected various aspects of daily life, including choice of clothing, sleep, social activities, and relationships. The location of the painful areas could also limit physical activities, including sex. (4) Pain management: Pain from AD could be managed to varying degrees by different over-the-counter and prescription treatments. Systemic agents that cleared the skin also resolved the pain associated with AD.
Conclusions:
Pain can be a significant factor in AD patients’ HRQL and should be considered by clinicians when caring for patients with AD.
Citation
Please cite as:
Snyder AM, Taliercio VL, Brandenberger AU, Rich BE, Webber LB, Beshay AP, Biber JE, Hess R, Rhoads JLW, Secrest AM
Effects of Pain From Atopic Dermatitis: Interview and Focus Group Study With Patients and Their Families