Alternative Psychotherapeutic Approaches to the Treatment of Eczema

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with eczema suffer from high psychological burden, often caused and exacerbated by chronic pruritus, which leads to a vicious itch-scratch cycle. Although much of the literature focuses on treating the physiological factors that lead to pruritus, little attention has been given to the cognitive, behavioral, and social factors associated with the itch-scratch cycle. We conducted a literature review to investigate whether treatments aimed at psychosocial factors could be effective for patients with eczema. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted through PubMed and EMBASE. Original investigative articles that focused on psychotherapeutic interventions for eczema and/or eczema-related psychological morbidities were reviewed. Results: Psychotherapeutic interventions alongside standard medical care are shown to be beneficial compared to conventional treatments alone, both for eczema and for eczema-associated psychological symptoms. Such interventions include meditation and mindfulness, stress-reduction, habit-reversal training, hypnotherapy, music therapy, massage therapy, and standard psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Conclusion: It is important to recognize the reciprocal relationship between eczema and psychosocial distress. Alternative treatment options to address psychological factors associated with eczema can improve disease trajectory and quality of life.