Role of childhood obesity in atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin that has become very common in childhood. Similarly, obesity has increased in the USA and developed countries to epidemic proportions. Recent clinical and epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between obesity and atopic dermatitis in childhood. Obesity is associated with increased prevalence and severity of, and healthcare utilization from, atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, obesity may be a modifiable risk factor for atopic dermatitis, such that weight loss may prevent or perhaps alleviate atopic dermatitis. Future studies are needed to determine whether weight loss in obese individuals improves atopic dermatitis.