A Study on the Use of Complementary Alternative Medicine in Children with Atopic Dermatitis

소아 아토피피부염에서의 대체보완요법 이용에 관한 연구

Chang, Eun-young;Chung, Seung-won;Ahn, Kang-mo;Lee, Sang-il
장은영;정승원;안강모;이상일

  • Published : 20050600

Abstract

Background: Complementary alternative medicine (CAM) has been commonly used for adults and children, although there is little evidence of effectiveness. In addition, concerns about the adverse effects of CAM keep increasing. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the nature and prevalence of CAM used in infants and young children with atopic dermatitis. Method: A total of 130 infants and children with atopic dermatitis were recruited. Atopic dermatitis was diagnosed by Hanifin's criteria. Parents were asked to complete the questionnaires on the use of CAM. Result: Approximately 87.6% of children used CAM for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Most commonly used therapies were herbal remedies, organic food diet, and soft water bath. There was no statistically significant difference in the age, duration of illness, and socio-demographic background of parents between children who did or did not use CAM. Conclusion: A variety of CAM is being used in a substantial proportion of children with atopic dermatitis. Thorough investigation of benifits and risks of CAM are required for better treatment and education of caretakers or children with atopic dermatitis.

Keywords

References

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