The value of SCORAD and beyond. Towards a standardized evaluation of severity?

The clinical scoring systems of atopic dermatitis were analysed and compared. Some biological parameters that can correlate with the clinical score were also reviewed. After the definition of the disease based on validated clinical criteria, the second necessity was the availability of reliable severity scores to allow clinicians to verify the course of the disease and the efficacy of treatments. After many proposals, the SCORAD (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis), that required more than three years of work, was the first one that was validated. SCORAD is freely available from an internet site and can be easily calculated using dedicated software. EASI (Eczema Area and Severity Index) score has also been validated but it has been modified twice. Simpler systems include SASSAD (Six Area, Six Sign Atopic Dermatitis) and TIS score (Three-Item Severity score). In parallel, biological parameters were investigated. Eosinophil cationic protein, circulating basophils, major basic protein, soluble E-selectin, antistaphylococcal enterotoxin B, immunoglobulin E titres and macrophage-derived chemokine, can correlate significantly with the clinical score. The clinicians will not benefit directly from laboratory techniques and will employ clinical scores. Copyright 2004 Blackwell Munksgaard