Association Between Atopic Dermatitis and Contact Sensitization: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Allergology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin condition.
• The relationship between AD and contact sensitization (CS) susceptibility is not fully understood.
• Previous studies have yielded conflicting results regarding AD and CS association.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the association between AD and CS.
• To provide updated estimates considering population type, demographics, and specific allergens.
• To synthesize data from recent studies with historical data.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science (2016-2025).
• Inclusion of data from a prior review (1982-2016).
• Meta-analysis to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) for AD and CS association.

Main Results:

• No overall association between AD and CS was found (OR 1.08).
• No significant association in referred populations (OR 1.03).
• Increased CS prevalence in general population studies with AD, significant in children/adolescents (OR 1.34), but not adults. Positive association with Compositae mix and sesquiterpene lactone mix, but not nickel, cobalt, or chromium.

Conclusions:

• Our findings indicate no general link between atopic dermatitis and contact sensitization.
• Factors like age and specific allergens can modify the AD-CS relationship.
• Patch testing remains valuable for evaluating contact sensitization in AD patients.