The use of complementary and alternative medicine among dermatology outpatients in Eastern Turkey

In a study of 1610 dermatology outpatients in Eastern Turkey, 43.7% reported using at least one complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) method, with 20.8% using two or more. CAM was commonly applied to conditions like contact dermatitis, acne vulgaris, fungal infections, eczema, and warts, with methods such as henna, cologne, and herbal therapy being popular. Despite no systemic side effects being detected, the study highlighted the risks of CAM, including the potential for serious adverse effects and the possibility of delaying proper medical treatment. The study found no significant correlation between CAM use and demographic factors but did find a correlation with the frequency of clinic visits. The authors recommended that physicians should inquire about CAM use and that further research is needed to understand the efficacy and risks of CAM methods.