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

Childhood atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common disease with the prevalence rates increasing. Its chronic course with frequent relapses puts a special burden on both children and their parents. To maximise positive long-term outcome 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 content of the Berlin education program for parents of children with AD. The program aims to contribute towards a comprehensive, family-oriented management of childhood AD. Its objective is to improve parent's self-management skills with regard to their child's disease and to positively impact the course of the disease as well as the family's quality of life. Medical, nutritional 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 on aspects of quality of life and coping.