Structured parent education in the management of childhood atopic dermatitis: The Berlin model

Childhood atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common disease with the prevalence ra tes increasing. Its chronic course with frequent relapses puts a special bu rden on both children and their parents. To maximise positive long-term out come in the management of AD it is important to support parents in dealing with the chronic condition of their child in addition to treating symptoms. In the present article, we describe in detail the goals, structure, and co ntent of the Berlin education program for parents of children with AD. The program aims to contribute towards a comprehensive, family-oriented managem ent of childhood AD. Its objective is to improve parent's self-management s kills with regard to their child's disease and to positively impact the cou rse of the disease as well as the family's quality of life. Medical, nutrit ional and psychological issues are covered in six group sessions which are conducted by a multiprofessional team of paediatricians, psychologists and dieticians. Preliminary data show that the program has a desirable effect o n aspects of quality of life and coping. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.