Differences between allergy and dermatology in referral, evaluation, and management patterns for pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis.

Abstract

Introduction: Allergists and dermatologists often take different approaches to caring for pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on patients <18 years old treated for AD within the University of Virginia health system from 2015 to 2020. Data were collected on patient and referring provider demographics as well as initial visit evaluation and management.

Results: A total of 269 patients presented to allergy, 685 patients presented to dermatology, and 14 patients presented to a combined allergy-dermatology clinic as an initial visit with a primary diagnosis of AD. Both specialties were most often referred to by a generalist though dermatology received more specialty provider referrals. In addition, allergy ordered more diagnostic testing (IgE, allergens, complete blood count), while dermatology prescribed more medications (topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, immunosuppressants). Patients seen in the combined dermatology-allergy clinic were more likely to receive diagnostic testing than patients seen in dermatology clinic and were more likely to be prescribed medications than patients seen in allergy clinic.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest allergists may focus more on identifying triggers of AD, while dermatologists largely focus on the prescription of therapies. Clinical care may be more comprehensive when allergists and dermatologists work synergistically.