However, randomized-controlled trials are needed to further identify the optimal potency and regimen of topical corticosteroids and assess the duration of remission and/or the prevention of flares patients experience with these topical therapies.Continuous usage of appropriate doses of topical corticosteroids is required to ensure symptoms stay relieved over the patients life time. If continuously used, corticosteroids have been suggested to minimize the risk of cancer in various studies. In a prospective longitudinal cohort study of 507 women throughout 6 years, cancer occurred for 4.7% of patients who were only "partially compliant" with corticosteroid treatment, while it occurred in 0% of cases where they were "fully compliant". In a second study, of 129 patients, cancer occurred in 11% of patients, none of which were fully compliant with corticosteroid treatment. Both these studies however also said that a corticosteroid as powerful as clobetasol is not necessary in most cases. In a prospective study of 83 patients, throughout 20 years, 8 patients developed cancer. 6 already had cancer at presentation and had not had treatment, while the other 2 were not taking corticosteroids often enough. In all three studies, every single cancer case observed occurred in patients who werent taking corticosteroids as often as the study recommended.Continuous, abundant usage of emollients topically applied to the LS-affected skin is recommended to improve symptoms. They can supplement but not replace corticosteroid therapy. They can be used much more frequently than corticosteroids due to the extreme rarity of serious adverse effects.
Stereotypic movement might also result in self harm. Behavioral abnormalities can also hinder social relations effectively. Affected individuals tend to become apathetic and withdrawn. Antisocial behavior might manifest as lying or stealing. Disrupted social functions related to a lack of socialization and integration can lead to further isolation. Hygiene and appearance may also be negatively impacted. Consequences and complication
The consequences of hospitalism can be detrimental for the people affected and reveal themselves in different ways. It is noteworthy that the symptoms can vary across different individuals, and several factors, such as age, play a significant role.Patients are also at higher risk for various mental disorders and anti-social behaviors:
anxiety disorders
depression
borderline-personality disorder
suicidal tendencies
apathy  
low self-esteem  
autoaggressive behaviour
attachment anxiety  
adjustment and communication disorders
tendencies towards aggressive behaviour
lack of personal hygieneIndividuals suffering from hospitalism are also at risk for sensory perception problems:
altered or delayed pain perception  
fear of touch  
hypersensitivity   Other common consequences relate to cognitive disorders, such as:
learning disabilities
rarely memory lapses or even loss of long- or short-term memory  
motor disorders such as monotonous and sterotyped movements (for example, banging the head against the wall) or a severely reduced ability to reactLong-term consequences, which is causally related to traumatic experiences, can be expressed in different ways. People showing signs of hospitalism might express an extreme aversion towards showing or accepting emotional or physical affection, effectively shutting themselves off from others. A different response could be promiscuity, whereas people strive for love and affection.