Supporting the parents of children with atopic eczema.

Atopic eczema is a chronic skin condition affecting between 5% and 20% of children aged up to 11 years, and the numbers are increasing. While eczema is often seen to be a minor problem, research has shown that it can cause considerable disruption to the lives of children and their carers, and can incur significant cost for the family and the healthcare system. Access to good quality, relevant information on the seriousness of atopic eczema, problems that are likely to occur during the illness, and how these may affect the child and his/her family's everyday life is an important consideration when providing care. This article focuses on the information needs and the role that support groups can have in relation to caring for children and their families living with atopic eczema.