Pain Is a Common and Burdensome Symptom of Atopic Dermatitis in United States Adults

Jonathan I. Silverberg*, Joel M. Gelfand, David J. Margolis, Mark Boguniewicz, Luz Fonacier, Mitchell H. Grayson, Zelma C. Chiesa Fuxench, Eric L. Simpson, Peck Y. Ong

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

65 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is associated with skin pain. However, little is known about the prevalence and associations of pain in AD. Objective: To characterize the frequency, intensity, characteristics, and associations of pain from AD. Methods: A cross-sectional, US population internet survey-based study of 602 adults with AD from the AD in America Study was performed (modified UK Working Party Criteria). Results: Overall, 365 (61%) reported pain from AD, with 199 (33%) experiencing pain at least once per week and 30 (5%) with pain daily. Among those with AD pain, 22% reported worst pain intensity ≥7. The frequency and intensity of AD pain were associated with Patient-Oriented Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (PO-SCORAD), PO-SCORAD itch and sleep, and Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (P ≤ .004 for all). Among those experiencing AD pain, 179 (48%) reported pain occurring only after frequent scratching, 156 (42%) reported intermittent pain, and 27 (11%) reported constant pain throughout the day. AD pain was most commonly associated with open areas caused by scratching (27%) and fissures in the skin (27%), followed by inflamed red skin (25%), with only a minority reporting pain mostly caused by burning from creams or ointments (10%). Mild AD was associated with more pain from scratching, whereas severe AD was associated with more constant pain and pain from inflamed skin. Conclusions: Pain is a distinct symptom in AD, with heterogeneous frequency, characteristics, intensity, and quality of life impact. Pain was related to scratching, fissures, and/or inflamed red skin, and least from burning from topical medications. Skin pain should be assessed in patients with AD and monitoring treatment response.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)2699-2706.e7
JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Volume7
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2019

Keywords

  • Atopic dermatitis
  • Burden
  • Eczema
  • Epidemiology
  • Itch
  • Pain
  • Severity
  • Sign
  • Symptom

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy

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