Salivary Cortisol Values and Personality Features of Atopic Dermatitis Patients: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) patients commonly experience psychological stress and impaired psychosocial functioning.

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare patients' salivary cortisol levels with AD severity and other associated stress-related psychological measures/parameters.

Methods: This prospective study analyzed salivary cortisol levels (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) in 84 AD patients (42 symptomatic patients and 42 asymptomatic patients). Each subject filled out the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, and the Crown-Crisp Experiential Index, which concerns personality features.

Results: Increased cortisol values were found in both groups and were not dependent on disease severity (Scoring Atopic Dermatitis [SCORAD]) and PSS. Patients with severe AD had significantly lower cortisol levels than those with moderate and mild AD ( P = 0.042). The PSS levels were not dependent on SCORAD but correlated with the perceived effect of AD on emotional states (Illness Perception Questionnaire 8), personality traits, anxiety, and depression ( P < 0.001).

Conclusions: The severity of perceived stress in AD patients is not adequately measured by salivary cortisol levels nor SCORAD; it does, however, correlate with the impact of AD on patients' emotional states and personality features (anxiety, depression). All AD patients, regardless of disease severity, should be assessed for impacts of stress, and a multidisciplinary approach should address mental wellness.