The British journal of dermatology
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Multicenter Study
Evaluation of diagnostic criteria for atopic dermatitis: validity of the criteria of Williams et al. in a hospital-based setting.
Surveys of the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) have been carried out world-wide, but the results vary widely. The differences probably result from the use of different diagnostic criteria. Williams et al. proposed minimum, simplified, diagnostic criteria that require no invasive test and are easy to use. Pilot studies in European countries showed their suitability for implementation both in hospitals and in the community, and their high sensitivity and specificity. ⋯ The diagnostic efficiency of the criteria of Williams et al. was basically similar to those of Hanifin and Rajka and of Kang and Tian in our out-patient settings. However, those of Williams et al. were easier to apply and required no invasive tests.