Neurocognitive function in moderate-severe pediatric atopic dermatitis: A case-control study.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Epidemiological studies have shown an increased prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children with atopic dermatitis (AD), but many of the features of ADHD may occur as a result of the poor sleep and itch distraction associated with AD.

METHODS: A case-control study was performed in children aged 6-17 years with moderate/severe AD compared with age-/sex-matched healthy controls. Participants were screened for ADHD using Vanderbilt assessments.

RESULTS: Seventeen patients with AD and 18 controls completed the study. Two children with AD (11.7%) and one control (5.56%) met screening criteria for ADHD via parent-completed Vanderbilt assessments; AD patients were not significantly more likely to screen positive for ADHD (P = 0.47), or comorbid behavior disorders (P = 0.23). However, AD patients were more likely than controls to exhibit ADHD-associated behaviors, most significantly inattention.

CONCLUSIONS: Our AD cohort did not have a significantly increased prevalence of ADHD. Certain neurocognitive symptoms are increased in children with moderate-to-severe AD compared to controls.