Topical corticosteroid phobia among caregivers: a study in atopic and nonatopic dermatitis children by using the TOPICOP score

Background Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are a standard treatment for many inflammatory cutaneous conditions; however, patients frequently suffer corticophobia, or fears about TCS side effects. Patients’ fear of TCS can prevent them from taking the medication properly, which might have an impact on disease control, particularly for chronic conditions such as atopic dermatitis. Objectives To evaluate topical corticophobia among caregivers of children diagnosed with atopic dermatitis and other skin disorders treated with TCS, using the TOPICOP score. The research additionally investigated factors related to corticophobia within the study group. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand, from April 2023 to January 2024. Parents of children visiting the dermatology clinic involving TCS were asked to complete the questionnaire. Results The study included 320 parents of children with skin conditions. There were 251 women (78.4%) and 69 men (21.6%). The mean age was 35 years (SD 8.13). The mean age of the children in the study was 5.64 years (SD 4.69). Median Global TOPICOP score was 52.78% (interquartile range 41.69–69.44). Parents with children with atopic dermatitis had a higher median global TOPICOP score of 63.89%, whereas those with other skin disorders had a lower score of 44.44%. Men, parents over 35 years old and parents with less than a bachelor’s degree showed lower corticophobia than women, younger parents and those with greater education. Conclusions The present study indicated that long-term diseases such atopic dermatitis caused more anxiety regarding TCS use than other skin problems. The face and periorbital were more vulnerable to TCS. Parents with higher education reported increased concern regarding TCS usage in Thai settings; thus, parents and caregivers, especially those with children with atopic dermatitis, should get appropriate TCS advice.