Heliotherapy in atopic dermatitis: a prospective study on climatotherapy using the SCORAD index

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the suitability and effectiveness of heliotherapy in moderate or severe atopic dermatitis in adults in the Canary Islands. A total of 216 patients participated on 6 different 2- or 3-week heliotherapy trips. Using the Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis Index (SCORAD), the severity of atopic dermatitis was assessed prior to the start of heliotherapy, after 2 weeks and then 3 months after the end of heliotherapy. A quality-of-life questionnaire was later mailed to all participants. The mean SCORAD index was reduced by 70% after 2 weeks of heliotherapy and was still 45% lower 3 months after therapy (P<0.0001). At 3 months, the use of topical steroids was still significantly reduced (P<0.0001), whereas there was no significant (P=0.1166) change in the consumption of emollients. The quality of life of patients was improved and their self-treatment and working capacity was increased. As the longer 3-week period provided no significant additional advantage over a 2-week period, 2 weeks of heliotherapy can be considered optimal. In conclusion, heliotherapy is an effective and valuable therapeutic adjunct, especially in adults with severe atopic dermatitis.