OBJECTIVES: The study aimed at assessing physicians’ prescribing behavior regarding the treatment of adults with Atopic Dermatitis (AD) in Portugal, as well as their perception on treatments and unmet needs.

METHODS: A physician primary market research study was conducted through computer assisted web interviewing. A total of 59 physicians were screened to reach the target sample of 50 physicians who responded to the complete survey, including 40 dermatologists and 10 allergists. Furthermore, 9 in-depth interviews with dermatologists and allergists were conducted to validate the surveys’ outcomes.

RESULTS: In 2017, 40% to 45% of adults with AD followed by dermatologists or allergists were classified as having moderate to severe disease. Ninety-one percent of these patients were treated in the past 12 months. Of untreated patients, 36% were due to contraindications, 36% due to previous lack of response, and 29% due to patient decision. Amongst treated patients, 37% were exclusively on topical treatment - including TCS and TCI – while the remaining received other treatments associated or not with topical treatment,: 11% phototherapy; 25% oral corticosteroids (OCS); 15% cyclosporine; 7% other immunosuppressants; 2% biologics; and 3% other combinations. 24% of moderate to severe patients were uncontrolled with current treatment, of which 74% were on topical or OCS treatment. For 50% of physicians, the efficacy in reducing the AD’s signs intensity and disease extension was the most important attribute for treatment prescription, followed by efficacy in reducing pruritus. Physicians’ classification of treatment options simultaneously positioned those regarded as most effective as being less safe (namely OCS and immunosuppressants).

CONCLUSIONS: Based on physicians’ surveys and in-depth interviews, a comprehensive understanding of AD treatment prescribing behavior was attained. One-third of moderate to severe patients were either uncontrolled with their current treatment or not treated, demonstrating the high unmet need.