Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is described by lichenification, pruritus and excoriation of the skin. Up to 70% of patients may experience stressful life events before onset of AD. In this study, we aimed to present use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for psychotherapy of an AD patient. Our second goal is to demonstrate the effect of therapist rotation model (TRM) for this group of patients. We used EMDR and TRM based on Van Minnen's model. We compared test results including depression, anxiety, and AD disease severity before and after EMDR sessions. Our patient's depression and anxiety scores decreased after EMDR therapy. EMDR may be useful for psychogenic component and itching complaint of AD. TRM may be rational, effective and tolerable for these patients.

Key words: EMDR, atopic dermatitis, trauma, psychogenic stress