Managing sleep disturbances in children with atopic dermatitis

Pediatr Dermatol. 2018 Jul;35(4):428-433. doi: 10.1111/pde.13444. Epub 2018 Mar 24.

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, pruritic inflammatory disease that often disrupts sleep in severely affected children, but there are limited studies to guide clinical management of these sleep problems. Disease control is crucial in improving sleep, but additional sleep aids may sometimes be helpful in decreasing scratching during the night. This review discusses the benefits and limitations of potential therapeutic agents available to manage sleep disturbances in children with atopic dermatitis.

Keywords: atopic dermatitis; sleep disturbances; sleep management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic alpha-Agonists / therapeutic use
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Benzodiazepines / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / complications*
  • Histamine Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Melatonin / therapeutic use
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / etiology
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / therapy*

Substances

  • Adrenergic alpha-Agonists
  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Histamine Antagonists
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Melatonin