LAUSR

AIM To describe the methodology in studying patient's acceptability and efficacy of an ectoin containing emollient for atopic dermatitis (AD) Methods: We described the methodology that we used in studying emollients and moisturizers, and patient acceptability of a group of AD patients before and following usage of an ectoin-containing proprietary emollient. These data were also compared with other emollients that we previously reported. RESULTS 30 subjects (50% Male, Mean (SD) age: 9.8 (3.6) years with AD used the trial emollient W for 4 weeks. AD severity of subjects (by objective SCORAD) were moderate (n=22) and severe (n=8). Compliance was good and patients generally managed to use the moisturizer daily, with individual reports of a 'tingly' sensation by some subjects when applied to inflamed wounds. 63% reported "very good" or "good", whereas 37% reported "fair" or "poor" acceptability of the moisturizer. Following use of the trial emollient, area affected, disease intensity and severity significantly improved, as demonstrated in objective SCORAD (p=0.002). There were also significant improvements in POEM (p=0.035), and PADQLQ scores (p=0.017). For skin measurements, only transepidermal water loss had improved (p=0.035) after the treatment. There was no significant improvement of itch or sleep scores, skin hydration, pH, S. aureus colonization status, or need for use of topical treatments. When compared with historical data of other emollients, the mean age of patients on emollient W was younger; efficacy and acceptability among these emollients were similar. CONCLUSIONS Methodology of emollient research is described. Choosing an appropriate emollient for AD patients would improve acceptability and adherence for emollient treatment. Physician's recommendation is the primary consideration for patients when selecting a moisturizer/emollient; therefore doctors should provide evidence-based information about these emollients. Efficacy profile of an ectoin-containing proprietary emollient is provided.