Wake EV, et al. – The experiences of children enrollees with regard to the treatment of atopic eczema (AE) was discerned in this trial, through silk garments. First–hand nuanced insights were gained by engaging children in the assessment of the garments, This improved the comprehension of the CLOTHES study as a whole. Hence, it was concluded that children could and indeed desired to be engaged in dermatological research in significant ways, which enhanced the understanding of therapeutic options.

Methods

• The recruitment consisted of 18 children aged 5-15, who took part in the CLOTHES trial.
• They took part in age-appropriate individual interviews or focus groups.

Results

• Thematic analysis generated 4 themes directly associated with the garments: i) expectations of the garments; ii) wearing the silk garments; iii) did they help? and iv) thoughts about the garments.
• Certain limited improvement was noted in eczema for some children.
• However, the hoped for ‘miracle cure’ did not transpire.
• A mixed picture arose of knowledge, beliefs and experiences of using the silk garments.