Association Between Atopic Dermatitis and Increased Risk of Venous Thromboembolism

In a recent study published in JAMA Dermatology, researchers illuminated a previously unrecognized connection between atopic dermatitis (AD) and an elevated risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE) in adulthood.

The researchers aimed to explore the potential association between AD and incident VTE. The study employed a population-based nationwide cohort approach, involving adults aged 20 years and older. The cohort consisted of individuals who were newly diagnosed with AD between 2003 and 2017, alongside matched control subjects.

A total of 284 858 participants were part of the study, evenly distributed between the AD and non-AD cohorts. Over the course of the follow-up period, the researchers observed that 0.7% of the AD cohort and 0.6% of the non-AD cohort developed VTE. The researchers also calculated the incidence rates at 1.05 and 0.82 per 1000 person-years, respectively.

The results showed significant association between AD and an increased risk of incident VTE. The hazard ratio (HR) for VTE was quantified at 1.28 (95% CI, 1.17-1.40) for adults with AD when compared to those without. Further analyses into specific outcomes indicated that AD was specifically linked to a higher risk of deep vein thrombosis (HR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.14-1.40) and pulmonary embolism (HR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.08-1.57).

“The results of this cohort study suggest that AD in adulthood is associated with an increased risk of VTE; however, the absolute risk difference of VTE between adults with and without AD appears small,” concluded the study authors. “Nevertheless, cardiovascular examination and imperative management may be considered for adults with AD who present with symptoms suggestive of VTE.”

Reference
Chen TL, Huang WT, Loh CH, Huang HK, Chi CC. Risk of venous thromboembolism among adults with atopic dermatitis. JAMA Dermatol. 2023;159(7):720-727. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2023.1300