Special Considerations of Atopic Dermatitis in Skin of Color

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2024:1447:45-57. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-54513-9_5.

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with heterogeneous presentations and prevalence across different skin tones. In this chapter, AD is explored through the lens of racial and ethnic diversity, emphasizing the special considerations among patients with skin of color (SOC). Specific ethnic groups may exhibit unique AD phenotypes, and these differences pose unique diagnostic and management challenges, especially given the disproportionate impact of AD in African American and Asian populations due to environmental exposures and social factors (i.e., decreased access to healthcare resources). Addressing these social disparities, increasing representation in medical education and the clinical space, as well as ongoing research can help better serve this patient population.

Keywords: Atopic dermatitis; Clinical trial recruitment; Clinical trials; Ethnic background; Immunology; Management; Racial disparities; Representation; Skin of color; Socioeconomic status.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Black or African American
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / ethnology
  • Healthcare Disparities
  • Humans
  • Prevalence
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Pigmentation*