COURSE AND TREATMENT FEATURES OF NEURODERMATITIS IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Background: Neurodermatitis, often referred to in the context of atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that frequently affects children. The multifactorial etiology, involving genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and immune dysregulation, complicates its management. Recovery and treatment in pediatric populations require a tailored approach due to the developmental and psychosocial factors unique to children. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the recovery trajectories and treatment outcomes in children diagnosed with neurodermatitis. Specifically, we compare the effectiveness of conventional pharmacological treatments with emerging biologic and alternative therapeutic modalities, assessing both short-term and long-term responses. Methods: A prospective, multicenter study was conducted over 24 months with 150 children (ages 3–16) diagnosed with neurodermatitis. Patients were stratified into three treatment groups: (1) conventional therapy (topical corticosteroids and emollients), (2) combination therapy (conventional treatment plus calcineurin inhibitors and antihistamines), and (3) emerging therapy (biologic agents or immunomodulatory treatments). Clinical outcomes were measured using the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), quality-of-life indices (Child Dermatology Life Quality Index), and patient/parent-reported symptom diaries. Follow-up assessments occurred at baseline, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. Results: Initial analysis indicated that while all treatment arms demonstrated statistically significant improvements in EASI scores over 24 months (p < 0.001), the emerging therapy group showed a more rapid reduction in inflammatory markers and symptomatic relief within the first 6 months. Quality-of-life improvements were more pronounced in the combination and emerging therapy groups compared to conventional therapy alone. Notably, recurrence rates were lowest in the emerging therapy group, although cost and accessibility remain challenges.