Article Text
Abstract
Background Dupilumab, a human anti-interleukin-4 receptor alpha monoclonal antibody, is the first biologic therapy to have been approved for the treatment of adult patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD). It is a disabling disease characterised by the presence of severe pruritus which can lead to sleep disturbance, anxiety and depression. Dupilumab is not commercialised in Spain. Hospital pharmacists are responsible for applying this treatment to patients, only after the elaboration of an exhaustive report.
Purpose To assess the improvement in the quality of life of patients with moderate-to-severe AD undergoing out-patient treatment with Dupilumab in our hospital.
Material and methods Retrospective observational study (December 2017 to September 2018), including all patients who received Dupilumab, was conducted. Two specific validated questionnaires were used (Dermatology Quality of Life Index (DLQI) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)), with complete confidentiality assured.
In addition, other variables were analysed: age, sex, severity of AD (Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD index)) as well as duration of treatment with Dupilumab.
Results Six patients (83% male) were treated with Dupilumab. The average age was 48.86±14.30. The average length of treatment with Dupilumab was 27 (20–38) weeks.
The results related to the severity of AD (SCORAD index) and the quality of life (DLQI and HADS) previous to and after treatment with Dupilumab are shown in table 1 below:
Conclusion In accordance with the results of DLQI and HADS questionnaires, Dupilumab has a substantial impact on the health-related quality of life of patients with moderate-to-severe AD.
References and/or acknowledgements No conflict of interest.