A recent study published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology reveals a positive correlation between the number of atopic dermatitis (AD) lesion locations on the body and the severity of disease burden experienced by patients.
The study, based on findings from the CorEvitas AD Registry, involved 1,211 participants diagnosed with AD and under dermatological care between July 2020 and June 2021. Researchers collected comprehensive data on patient demographics, disease characteristics, medical history, and quality of life indicators.
Key Findings
Researchers found that as the number of AD lesion locations increased, patients experienced a more substantial disease burden, including increased disease severity, poorer disease control, and decreased quality of life. Notably, the study revealed the following:
Lesion Distribution Patterns: The study identified common lesion locations, with a high proportion of patients experiencing arm involvement (70%), often accompanied by lower limb involvement (80% among those with arm lesions).
Demographics: Patients’ average age varied by lesion location, ranging from 45.6 years (face) to 52.7 years (plantar feet), with a predominance of females in most affected areas.
Disease Severity: Greater lesion numbers were associated with more severe disease activity, as indicated by larger affected body surface areas, higher Eczema Area Severity Index scores, and SCORing Atopic Dermatitis assessments.
Implications and Limitations
The study sheds light on the significant burden of AD across multiple lesion locations and underscores the need for effective therapies to address this burden in real-world settings. However, the authors acknowledged certain limitations, including potential sample biases and the need for further comparison based on body surface area and intensity.
Lead author Dr. Simpson emphasized the urgent need for improved AD therapies, stating, “An increase in lesion locations corresponds with severe disease burden and decreased quality of life. This study highlights a critical unmet need for effective treatments for patients with AD.”
This research contributes valuable insights into the impact of lesion distribution on AD outcomes, emphasizing the importance of personalized and comprehensive management strategies for patients affected by this chronic skin condition.
