Paediatric Atopic Diseases: Short- And Long-term Results Of Homeopathic Treatment

An observational study was conducted at the Lucca Homeopathic Clinic from 1998 to 2014. 325 consecutive paediatric [child] patients with atopic disorders [asthma, eczema and hay fever] were assessed to evaluate clinical outcomes following homeopathic treatment and the long-term evolution of the disease in patients with ≥5 years’ follow-up. The results show positive short- and long-term clinical benefits in atopic children who receive homeopathic treatment

 

- Rossi E, Picchi M, Bartoli P, Panozzo M, Cervino C, Nurra L

INTRODUCTION

Allergic diseases such as asthma, eczema and hay fever are the most common chronic childhood conditions and, in recent decades, have reached epidemic proportions in most Western societies. Such conditions often run in families or occur together in the same individual; this is referred to as ‘atopy.’ Additionally, one allergic condition may progress to multiple allergic conditions in atopic individuals. In particular, skin and food allergies may progress to respiratory allergies; this progression is known as ‘atopic march.’

Complementary and alternative medicine [CAM] is used extensively to manage, treat and support patients with atopic diseases, and the potential role homeopathy might play is an active area of research. Some of the strongest positive clinical studies on homeopathy involve the treatment of allergic conditions, especially hay fever [Reilly et al, 1986].

There is additional mixed evidence in asthma, but little available evidence in eczema and even less is known about the potential role of homeopathy in affecting atopic progression. This review presents data from a recently published longitudinal observational study, documenting the results of homeopathic treatment on atopic disease severity, rates of remission and atopic progression in a paediatric population in Lucca, Italy, seen between 1998 and 2014.

CLINICAL SETTING

The Homeopathic Clinic of the Campo di Marte Provincial Hospital of Lucca, funded by the Tuscany region in Italy, was initially established in 1998 as part of a pilot project aimed at assessing the feasibility of integrating complementary medicine into the public healthcare system. By 2002, following successful conclusion of the pilot project, integration of homeopathy was guaranteed.

AIMS OF THE STUDY