Nice: Guidance will improve care
Wednesday, 12 Dec 2007 12:35
New guidance on eczema treatment will improve the management of the skin condition in children, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) claims.
The health advisory body issued new guidelines on atopic eczema, which affects about one in five children and causes inflamed and dry skin.
It says the guidance is based on the most comprehensive review and analysis of available evidence on ways to improve the quality of life of both children and their parents when managing the condition.
Nice recommends health professionals adopt a holistic approach when assessing a child's atopic eczema, taking into account the severity of the condition and the child's quality of life, including everyday activities and sleep, and psychosocial wellbeing.
It also says unperfumed bath emollients should be used every day for moisturising, washing and bathing and advises parents and carers to avoid using high street and internet allergy tests as there is "no evidence" of their value in managing eczema.
Professor Peter Littlejohns, Nice clinical and public health director and executive lead for the recommendations, said: "The publication of this guideline will improve the management of atopic eczema in children from birth up to the age of 12 years in primary, secondary and community care.
"For the first time, people suffering from this condition will benefit from a consistent approach to managing their condition, regardless of where they live."
