Abstract
Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disease associated with an increased risk of a number of comorbidities, including mental disorders, which can worsen the course of the skin disease. The most common mental comorbidities include depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, attention deficit, hyperactivity disorder, autism and increased suicidal activity (suicidal thoughts or self-harm in suicidal ideation).
Pathophysiology is multifactorial, currently there is increasing evidence of the involvement of multiple immune mechanisms, stress, sleep deprivation and other socioeconomic and behavioral factors play an important role. Concerning the course and prognosis of atopic dermatitis, mental comorbidities must be recognized in time.
Simple instruments in the form of self-evaluation scales can be used for detection. Treatment should take place in collaboration with psychiatrists and psychologists using targeted psychotropic drugs or psychotherapy.
Hope in the treatment of atopic dermatitis are monoclonal antibodies directed against pro-inflammatory cytokines, which could bring relief to patients also in the area of mental health.