Prospective observational study of 42 patients with atopic dermatitis treated with homeopathic medicines.

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a highly prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disease which usually develops during childhood. Despite being a condition frequently treated with homeopathy, the evidence is still insufficient to define homeopathic treatment's efficacy and the best therapeutic strategies.

AIMS

To evaluate the effectiveness of homeopathic treatment of AD in a general homeopathic practice setting.

METHODS

Patients spontaneously seeking homeopathic treatment meeting Hanifin and Rajka's criteria were prospectively treated. Severity of disease was evaluated by Rajka and Langeland's score and a set of four Visual Analogue Scales (VAS) evaluating disease severity, itch, general and psychological wellbeing and quality of sleep. Assessed outcomes were: change in AD extension, change in VASs, and a categorical scale for global subjective perception of evolution.

RESULTS

Forty two patients were eligible. Twenty-one had other atopic comorbidities and 28 (66.7%) were moderate or severe cases. Sixteen (38.1%) patients dropped out. Significant differences were found comparing first and last consultations in mean percentage (95%CI) of affected skin area, 21.1% (10.9; 31.4) versus 5.5% (1.3; 9.7) respectively, P=0.002, and in the change or the four VASs: [mm (95%CI)] AD 31.1 (20.6; 41.7), P<0.0001; Itch 35.0 (23.6; 46.4), P<0.0001; General wellbeing 11.1 (1.2; 20.9), P<0.0188, and Sleep 17.4 (5.0; 29.8), P<0.0073. Homeopathic aggravations were reported after 29.8% of prescriptions. Twelve individualized homeopathic medicines were prescribed; Sulphur accounted for 60% of cases with good treatment response.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that in a general medical practice setting, homeopathic treatment could be regarded as an effective choice for patients with AD.