Atopic dermatitis in specialized centers in Spain: a retrospective analysis of incidence and costs (2000-2017).

Background: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that has substantial effects on patients' quality of life, with a prevalence between 2.2% and 17.6% worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the use of specialized care resources generated by children and adults with atopic dermatitis, and the associated direct medical costs.

Methods: Admission details from patients admitted in specialized healthcare centers (inpatient and outpatient care) in Spain between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2017 were analyzed in a retrospective multicentre study.

Results: Records corresponded to 3036 patients, 1266 aged 5 years or younger. Comorbid conditions corresponded to skin infections and respiratory difficulties (asthma, bronchiectasis). Hospital incidence of atopic dermatitis was 5.8 per 100,000 persons, stable over the study period, and 30.0 per 100,000 in those aged 5 years and younger. Mean annual direct medical cost per patient was €2469. Overall, direct medical costs per patient increased significantly over the study period (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion: Hospital incidence of atopic dermatitis remained stable over the study period, which is in contrast with the increasing incidence reported by the Spanish government in primary care centers. The increase in direct medical costs of specialized care responded to the increase in treatment costs.