Understanding TCS concerns and TSW: bridging patient experience, clinical science, and the digital era
Background and Rationale
The International Society of Atopic Dermatitis (ISAD) announces a competitive call for research projects addressing concerns related to topical corticosteroid (TCS) use, including topical steroid withdrawal, within the broader context of atopic dermatitis (AD). Topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is a term used to describe symptoms reported after discontinuation of topical corticosteroids. While widely discussed in patient communities, its clinical definition, prevalence, and pathophysiology remain subjects of ongoing debate.
In recent years, patient-reported experiences, social media narratives, and advocacy-driven discourse have significantly shaped perceptions of TCS safety and efficacy including self-diagnosis of TSW. While these perspectives reflect genuine patient suffering and unmet needs, they also raise important scientific, clinical, and societal questions regarding diagnosis, causality, communication, and care pathways.
This call aims to foster high-quality, patient-centered research to better understand these phenomena and to inform clinical practice and public health strategies.
Objectives
Projects should address one or more of the following areas:
- Epidemiology and clinical characterization of TCS-related adverse effects, including TSW
- Analysis of patient journeys and lived experiences, including qualitative and mixed-method approaches
- The role of social media, online communities, and advocacy groups in shaping disease perception and self-diagnosis
- Psychological, behavioral, and health-system determinants of TCS concerns
- Evaluation of communication strategies between patients and healthcare professionals
- Development of tools or frameworks for patient-centered care in this context
Interdisciplinary approaches (dermatology, epidemiology, psychology, digital health, social sciences) are strongly encouraged.
Funding and Duration
| Grant amount | €20,000 |
| Duration | typically 12 months |
- The funding is intended to support a defined research project and may cover personnel, data collection, analysis, or other relevant research expenses.
Eligibility
- Open to clinicians, researchers, and multidisciplinary teams worldwide
- No age limit and no mandatory mobility requirement
- Applicants must be affiliated with an academic, clinical, or research institution of recognized standing
Application Requirements
Applications should be submitted in English and include:
Applicant profile
- Curriculum vitae
- List of publications
- Brief personal statement
Research project proposal
- Background and rationale
- Objectives and methodology
- Expected outcomes and impact
- Timeline (typically one year)
Institutional support letter
- Confirmation that the host institution will provide the necessary environment and supervision
Selection Process
Applications will be evaluated by the ISAD Board based on:
- Scientific quality and originality
- Relevance to the call topic
- Feasibility within the proposed timeframe
- Potential impact on patient care and understanding of TCS-related concerns
Reporting and Dissemination
- A final report must be submitted within one month after completion of the project
- Publication in a peer-reviewed journal and/or presentation at an international meeting is strongly encouraged
- ISAD support should be acknowledged in all resulting outputs (ISAD)
Deadline and Submission
- Submission deadline: June 15, 2026