Effects of childhood atopic eczema on the quality of life

Atopic eczema is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin diseases affecting children. Disease presentation may influence how the child perceives him- or herself and may have an influence on the psychological development of the child or influence the quality of life. The impact of health-related quality of life in children suffering from atopic eczema can be measured by using assessment tools such as the Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQ) and the Infant Dermatitis Quality of Life Index (IDQOL), together with the Dermatitis Family Impact (DFI) tool to assess the impact on family members or caregivers. Psychological factors identified by using these assessment tools include impaired emotional development, increased behavioural problems and sleep difficulties. It may interfere with intellectual and social development of children. Parents may experience frustration and anger which may result in lower social functioning, financial strain and reduced overall wellbeing. The quality-of-life assessments and psychological interventions should form part of the treatment process for atopic eczema.