Atopic dermatitis clinical guideline

Guidelines on comorbidities associated with atopic dermatitis

This guideline, completed in 2021 and published in early 2022, is the first in a new series on atopic dermatitis (AD) that are being developed by the American Academy of Dermatology and will supersede the 2014 guidelines (below) when publication is complete. Highlights of the comorbidities guideline include:

1. In addition to AD itself, the patient- and population-level burden of disease is increased by associated comorbidities.

2. The objective of this guideline is to appraise the evidence for the association between AD and comorbid conditions, with the aim of improving awareness and understanding among dermatologists and other clinicians.

3. There is strong evidence that AD in adults is associated with select allergic, atopic, immune-mediated, mental health and bone health comorbidities and skin infections.

4. There is some evidence supporting an association between AD in adults and substance use, ADHD, and elements of metabolic syndrome.

5. Evidence suggests a small association with various cardiovascular conditions.

6. The association between AD in adults and autism spectrum disorders, myocardial infarction, stroke, and metabolic syndrome as a whole is uncertain.

7. Clinicians should be aware of comorbidities associated with AD. Further research is needed to determine whether screening or management of comorbidities is beneficial for adults with AD.

Atopic dermatitis clinical guidelines from 2014

These guidelines, published in 2014, consist of four sections each covering a range of topics related to diagnosis, assessment, safety, and efficacy of treatments for AD.

Section 1: Diagnosis and assessment of atopic dermatitis

Section 2: Management and treatment of atopic dermatitis with topical therapies

Section 3: Management and treatment with phototherapy and systemic agents

Section 4: Prevention of disease flares and use of adjunctive therapies

View the AAD guidelines disclaimer.