Assessment of "corticophobia" as an indicator of non-adherence to topical corticosteroids: A pilot study. (17th February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mueller, Simon M.; Itin, Peter; Vogt, Deborah R.; Walter, Marc; Lang, Undine; Griffin, Liezel L.; Euler, Sebastian
• Is Part Of: Journal of dermatological treatment. Volume 28:Number 2(2017)
• Page Start: 104
• Page End: 111
• Publication Date: 2017-02-17
• Subjects: Adherence -- clinical tool -- diagnostic tool -- phobia -- topical steroids; Skin -- Diseases -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Skin Diseases -- drug therapy -- Periodicals; Skin Diseases -- therapy -- Periodicals; 616.5
• DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2016.1201189
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0954-6634

Abstract

Abstract: Background : Concerns regarding topical corticosteroid (TCS) use, broadly known as "corticophobia", are highly prevalent among dermatology patients and often result in non-adherence to TCS. This non-adherence contributes to poor disease control and increased health care costs. However, it is unknown if assessment of these concerns might help to identify patients at risk of TCS-non-adherence. Clinical tools indicating non-adherence could be helpful to improve management of this patient group. Objective : To assess whether the available tools for measuring concerns regarding corticosteroids, the TOPICOP scale and the 0-10 Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), could help to detect non-adherence to TCS. Methods : In 75 patients with concerns regarding TCS use both the TOPICOP scale and VAS were anonymously assessed. A comparison was made between TCS-adherent and non-adherent patients regarding the intensity and characteristics of their concerns. Results : The intensity and quality of the concerns varied broadly among the patients. When using the VAS, a score of ≥5 detected 87% of non-adherent patients. The answers to the TOPICOP scale did not discriminate non-adherent from adherent patients. Conclusion : Using the VAS to assess concerns to use TCS could help identify patients at risk of TCS-non-adherence and facilitate discussion with the patient about potential non-adherence in a more substantiated, non-judgemental way.