Burden of Disease and Unmet Needs in Atopic Dermatitis: Results From a Patient Survey

Abstract

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects 2%-10% of adults worldwide. Occurrence and severity of symptoms and treatment success vary among patients. Objective: To determine disease severity, burden, and treatment use and satisfaction in adults with AD. Methods: An international internet-based survey was conducted (October 5-November 1, 2021) in participants with AD from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Results: Of 2005 AD patients surveyed, 92% had body surface area (BSA) involvement <10%. Itch was the most bothersome symptom; 48.5% of participants reported severe itch in the past week (Itch Numerical Rating Scale [NRS] 7-10; 45.9% for BSA <10%, 75.0% for BSA ≥10%). Most participants reported moderate or severe sleep disturbance in the past week (Sleep NRS 4-10; 67.1% for BSA <10%, 92.3% for BSA ≥10%). Itch was the top reason for participants' most recent health care provider visit; reducing itching was their top treatment goal. Topical therapies, which were most commonly used, resulted in low treatment satisfaction. Conclusions: Itch was the most bothersome AD symptom. Although clinical development has focused on improving skin lesions, improving itch is patients' top treatment goal. This survey highlights the need for systemic antipruritic therapies that could reduce itch in nonlesional and lesional skin.