Metabolic syndrome and inflammatory skin conditions

Several chronic inflammatory skin disorders have been linked to metabolic syndrome (MetS) and an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. In this review, we will summarize the recent evidence on the association between psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), and atopic dermatitis (AD) and metabolic syndrome with careful attention to this association among the pediatric population.

Historically, psoriasis has exhibited the most robust association with MetS in the literature. Recent studies show that the prevalence of MetS appears to be higher among patients with HS and can be associated with MetS even in mild disease. A relationship between AD and MetS is still under debate, but research has shown a clear link between pediatric AD and being overweight or obese.

There are no current consensus guidelines for metabolic syndrome in the pediatric population, and its clinical implications in children are still unclear. Nevertheless, providers should be aware of the shared underlying inflammatory state and link between several cutaneous disorders and metabolic syndrome. Early diagnosis and proper disease management of these at risk populations has the potential to assist in disease control and mitigate future cardiovascular disease.