Use of systemic corticosteroids for atopic dermatitis: International Eczema Council consensus statement

Abstract

Background

Guidelines discourage the use of systemic corticosteroids for atopic dermatitis but their use remains widespread.

Objective

To reach consensus among an international group of atopic dermatitis experts on the use of systemic corticosteroids for atopic dermatitis.

Methods

A survey consisting of statements accompanied by visual analog scales ranging from "strongly disagree" to "neutral" to "strongly agree" was distributed to the International Eczema Council (IEC). Consensus was reached in agreement on a statement if <30% of respondents marked to the left of "neutral" towards "strongly disagree."

Results

Sixty of 77 (79%) IEC members participated. Consensus was reached on 12 statements, including that systemic corticosteroids should generally be avoided but can be used rarely for severe atopic dermatitis under certain circumstances, including a lack of other treatment options, as a bridge to other systemic therapies or phototherapy, during acute flares in need of immediate relief, in anticipation of a major life event or in the most severe cases. If used, treatment should be limited to short-term. Most respondents agreed that systemic corticosteroids should never be used in children, but consensus was not reached on that statement. The conclusions of our expert group are limited by a dearth of high-quality published evidence. If more stringent consensus criteria were applied (e.g., requiring <20% of respondents marking towards "strongly disagree," consensus would have been reached on fewer statements.

Conclusions

Based on expert opinion from the IEC, routine use of systemic corticosteroids for atopic dermatitis is generally discouraged and should be reserved for special circumstances.

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