On the occasion of the National Eczema Week, an expert meeting dedicated to atopic dermatitis was held at the Dean’s Office of the Faculty of Medicine in Skopje. The event was organized in coordination with the GA²LEN Network and GAAPP (Global Allergy and Airways Patient Platform).

At the meeting, a lecture on the topic: “Psychodermatology in Practice: Psychological Aspects and Challenges in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis” was given by Ivana Hadzivanova, MSc., a psychologist and psychotherapist from Neocortex – Center for Psychotherapy, Psychodiagnostics, Training and Education, and an external associate at Acibadem Sistina Hospital.

"Psychological stress can affect the clinical condition of atopic dermatitis, while visible symptoms and skin changes cause additional psychological stress in patients. A multidisciplinary approach and integrated psychodermatological care result in rapid healing, better compliance with the treatment and higher quality of life in patients with skin diseases", said Ivana Hadzivanova, MSc.

The event was moderated by Prof. Andrej Petrov, MD, PhD, a dermatology specialist from Acibadem Sistina Hospital and president of the Association of Dermatovenerologists of Macedonia.

The aim of this expert meeting was to raise awareness about atopic dermatitis and to contribute together to improved quality of life in patients living with this chronic skin disease.