Parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices on atopic dermatitis at the Skin Clinic, Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children

Atopic dermatitis is a relapsing skin condition commonly seen in primary care. Objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices on atopic dermatitis of parents/caregivers of affected children at the Skin Clinic, Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children.

Descriptive cross-sectional study of 103 parents/ caregivers was carried out over a period of 1 month from January to February 2007.

Forty two percent had made some change in the child's diet, and 41% of respondents had made a change in their child's washing/bathing. Majority of school children had reduced school attendance. Mean score of subsequent visits was significantly higher than of first visits. More than 80% had misconceptions regarding aetiology and precipitating factors.

There is a need to assess the quality of life of affected children and impact on the family.