Sleep Disturbances and Atopic Dermatitis: Relationships, Methods for Assessment, and Therapies

J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2021 Apr;9(4):1488-1500. doi: 10.1016/j.jaip.2020.12.007. Epub 2020 Dec 13.

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin conditions and is associated with sleep disturbances in 47% to 80% of children and 33% to 90% of adults. Herein, we review the literature on sleep disturbances experienced by patients with atopic dermatitis, as well as the mechanisms that may underlie this. We present subjective and objective methods for measuring sleep quantity and quality and discuss strategies for management. Unfortunately, the literature on this topic remains sparse, with most studies evaluating sleep as a secondary outcome using subjective measures. The development of portable, at-home methods for more objective measures offers new opportunities to better evaluate sleep disturbances in atopic dermatitis research studies and in clinical practice.

Keywords: Atopic dermatitis; Insomnia; Pruritus; Sleep; Type 2 immunity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / diagnosis
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / epidemiology
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / therapy
  • Eczema*
  • Humans
  • Sleep
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / epidemiology