Chapter 5. Treatment success factors: diagnostic and treatment choices, and patient education

Abstract

In eczema, many factors influence treatment success. This interactive session included discussion of two case histories, illustrating the range of diagnostic procedures and treatment options available in eczema, and the variety of solutions that individual clinicians might choose. When inflammation and infection are both present, a topical treatment that combines anti-inflammatory and anti-infectious actions is an excellent choice. Even if the correct diagnosis is made and the correct therapy prescribed, poor compliance with treatment will result in failure. A structured standardized atopic eczema education programme used in Germany, which has been shown to improve compliance and outcomes, is described. A combination of the doctor’s skills, the use of evidence-based medicine and patient education all contribute to treatment success.