Atopic Dermatitis: Update on Pathogenesis and Comorbidities

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a significant cause of morbidity and healthcare costs in the United States and worldwide. The prevalence of AD in childhood is rising in the United States and other developed countries for reasons that are not well understood. Similarly, the prevalences of obesity and diabetes are on the rise, which might be contributing toward increased AD. This article reviews the association between AD and other atopic disorders with obesity and diabetes. Furthermore, recently recognized AD comorbidities, including fatty liver disease and erectile dysfunction, are reviewed. Potential mechanisms for the association between AD and metabolic disorders are discussed. © 2012 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.