What is the primary reason some patients do not respond well to atopic dermatitis treatments?

The primary reason some patients do not respond well to atopic dermatitis treatments is poor adherence to treatment. This refers to the patient's failure to follow the prescribed medication regimen or lifestyle modifications that are essential for managing their condition. Adherence can be influenced by several factors, including misunderstanding the treatment plan, experiencing side effects, or not recognizing the importance of consistent application of topical therapies. When patients do not adhere to their treatment schedules, they may not achieve the desired effect, leading to continued symptoms and frustration.

While incorrect diagnosis, insufficient counseling, and presence of comorbid conditions can also impact treatment outcomes, they do not specifically center on the aspect of how well patients follow the treatment recommendations. In fact, if a patient's adherence is high, they may still respond better even if there are issues in these other areas, emphasizing that adherence is a critical factor in the management of atopic dermatitis.