Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis (AD), is a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory skin disease characterized by intense itch, recurrent eczematous lesions, and a fluctuating course.1,2 Statistics showed that up to 20% of children are affected by AD worldwide, while 15% of secondary school children in Hong Kong are reported to have the problem.3,4 In addition, evidence has suggested the prevalence of AD in Asia is on the rise.2 Although AD can be controlled through various proven strategies, optimizing AD management is still a challenge since certain situations, such as steroid phobia and poor patient compliance, could lead to treatment failure.4 In these regards, an algorithm for the topical AD treatment was developed and published in 2020 for use by the primary care physicians, pediatricians, and dermatologists in South and East Asia.2 In the interviews with Omnihealth Practice, Dr. Luk, Chi-Kong David and Professor Hon, Kam-Lun Ellis, authors of the practical recommendations, discussed the difficulties in managing mild-to-moderate AD, and shared their views on improving treatment outcomes in these AD patients.
