Exploring the Interplay: Obesity, Lipid Metabolism, and Clinical Manifestations in Atopic Dermatitis

Abstract

Background: The interest toward the association between atopic dermatitis (AD) and obesity increasing, yet the possibility of abnormal lipid metabolism has never been investigated before. Objective: To identify the characteristics of patients with AD who are obese and analyze the serum lipid profiles of these patients. Methods: This observational study included 167 patients diagnosed with AD and underwent evaluations for serum lipid panels between July 2017 and October 2017. The patients' body mass index was used to determine obesity and the serum lipid panels were analyzed between patients who are obese and non-obese. Also, the disease severity and subjective symptoms were evaluated and serum total immunoglobulin E (IgE) and specific IgE levels were assessed. Results: Of the 167 patients with AD, there were 36 obese and 131 non-obese subjects. Obese patients were found to have a significantly higher disease severity, as well as higher serum triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels and lower high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels, which was most pronounced in adult males. Obesity AD patients also had significantly higher serum total IgE, itch intensity score, and number of allergens sensitized. Conclusion: Patients with AD who are obese should be monitored for possible abnormalities in lipid metabolism. Obesity may be a factor that contributes to a higher disease severity of AD.