McMaster researcher develops new international guidelines for treating eczema

McMaster University researcher Derek Chu has developed new guidelines for treating the common skin condition known as eczema.

The guidelines, released Dec. 18 by the Allergy Immunology Joint Task Force for Practice Parameters (JTFPP) and published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and management of atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema.

“These guidelines are distinguished from others through systematic reviews of the evidence with multidisciplinary panellist engagement, adherence to GRADE – a rigorous guideline development process, as well as the involvement of the patient and caregiver voice from start to finish,” says Chu, co-chair of the guidelines and an assistant professor with the Department of Medicine at McMaster University.

The guidelines offer several recommendations, and highlight:

• Shared decision making is integral to optimal care for patients.
• How to best treat eczema flare-ups using medicated creams or ointments, like topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, newer treatments and limiting topical antibiotics, when regular moisturizers aren’t helping.
• For people who have frequent flare-ups of eczema, how to rapidly gain control of eczema and keep it controlled by using topical treatments on a regular basis, not just when symptoms worsen.
• When to consider dilute bleach baths or allergen immunotherapy to help control eczema.
• Not changing diets to improve eczema severity.
• Optimal use of advanced therapies (oral and injection medicines and ultraviolet light).
• Multiple handouts in the eAppendix to facilitate implementing the recommendations.

“The new recommendations reflect the evolution of developing trustworthy recommendations for optimal patient care,” Chu says.

The Canadian Dermatology Association estimates that 17 per cent of Canadians will develop eczema in their lifetime.

As part of the JTFPP, a partnership between the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, Chu also released new guidelines on anaphylaxis, a rapid and life-threatening allergic reaction.