Topical corticosteroid phobia among healthcare professionals using the TOPICOP score

Abstract

Corticophobia is a major problem in adherence to therapy. This study examined corticophobia among healthcare professionals using the Topical Corticosteroid Phobia (TOPICOP) questionnaire. The TOPICOP questionnaire was adapted for use with professionals (TOPICOP-P). Four groups of professionals: Pharmacists, paediatricians, general practitioners and dermatologists were observed. The mean±standard deviation global TOPICOP score was 41.9±14.9%. Pharmacists had the highest scores for corticophobia: A global score of 48.5±13.9%, followed by general practitioners, 46.0±13.5%, paediatricians 39.7±14.5%, and dermatologists 32.3±12.1%. Overall, there was a statistically significant difference in the mean score between the 4 groups (p<0.05). In conclusion, there is prominent corticophobia among healthcare professionals, especially among pharmacists and general practitioners, which is probably based on insufficient knowledge of topical corticosteroids. In order to improve patient compliance, re-education of healthcare providers is suggested.