Mapping the relationship between atopic dermatitis and gut microbiota: a bibliometric analysis, 2014-2023

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Immunology
• Microbiology
• Bibliometrics

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disease impacting physical health and quality of life.
• Gut microbiota stability is vital for immune function, skin barrier integrity, and neuroendocrine signaling, influencing AD progression.
• Infant gut microbiota research offers insights into AD prevention and treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the correlation between atopic dermatitis and gut microbiota.
• To provide an overview of current research trends and emerging areas in this field.
• To identify key research hotspots and future directions in AD and gut microbiota studies.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed on the Web of Science Core Collection (2014-2023).
• Included English-language articles and reviews, screened by two independent investigators.
• Visual analysis was conducted using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Scimago Graphica, and Microsoft Excel.

Main Results:

• 804 articles published, with a significant increase over the decade.
• The United States, Wageningen University, and University Ulsan led in publications; Nutrients and Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology were key journals.
• Keyword analysis revealed "atopic dermatitis" and "gut microbiota" as central themes, with a shift from "Fecal microbiota" to "cells," "dysbiosis," and "prebiotics" in recent research.

Conclusions:

• Research on atopic dermatitis and gut microbiota has significantly evolved, with increasing focus on pathogenic mechanisms.
• Recent studies highlight the intricate relationship between gut microbiota and AD, particularly in infants.
• This review provides a valuable reference for future research, offering deeper insights into this burgeoning field.