Atopic dermatitis increases risk for comorbidities, dermatologist reports

Atopic dermatitis increases the risks for short-term and long-term systemic comorbidities, according to information presented at the American Academy of Dermatology Summer Meeting in Boston.

“Although it affects the skin, eczema is not just skin-deep,” Jonathan Silverberg, MD, PhD, MPH, FAAD, assistant professor in dermatology, medical social sciences and preventive medicine at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, reported in an AAD press release.

The risk of developing allergic disorders, including asthma, hay fever and food allergy, as well as other health conditions, including obesity and cardiovascular disease can be increased by atopic dermatitis, according to Silverberg, who conducted a focus session on comorbidities of atopic dermatitis at the meeting.

While it is unclear, a possible risk factor for the connection may be the result of eczema-related inflammation affecting the entire body or symptoms negatively affecting patients’ sleep and health patterns, Silverberg reported.

Patients with psoriasis can develop bacterial skin infections including impetigo and cellulitis, as well as immune-related infections of the upper respiratory tract and urinary tract, Silverberg reported.

Mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, can occur in response to atopic dermatitis symptoms, which may be aggravated by sleep disturbances, according to Silverberg. Worsening itching is another possibility at night, he reported in the release.

Short-term treatment can be used to control flares. Management of symptoms in the long-term also is needed, since comorbidities, including cardiovascular problems, may develop as a result of cumulative effects on the body, Silverberg reported.

“Atopic dermatitis can be extremely frustrating for patients, but there are effective treatments available, as well as several new treatment options in development that look very promising,” Silverberg stated in the release.

Reference:

Silverberg J, FOC U008 – Comorbidities of Atopic Dermatitis. Presented at: American Academy of Dermatology Summer Meeting; July 28-31; Boston.

Disclosure: Silverberg reports being a consultant and investigator with Eli Lilly and Company and Regeneron, a consultant with AbbVie, Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Medimmune, Procter & Gamble, and an investigator with Celgene Corp. and Hoffman-La Roche.