# Association between atopic dermatitis and risk of stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis

## TL;DR

This study finds that people with atopic dermatitis have a higher risk of stroke, especially men and those with ischemic stroke.

## Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive meta-analysis showing a significant link between atopic dermatitis and increased stroke risk.

## Key findings

- Atopic dermatitis is associated with a 27% increased risk of stroke.
- The association is stronger in males and for ischemic stroke types.
- The risk increases with the severity of atopic dermatitis.

## Abstract

Recent studies have sought to determine the correlation between atopic dermatitis (AD) and the occurrence of stroke; however, these investigations have not reached a consensus. Consequently, our team conducted this meta-analysis and systematic review to further explore the potential relationship between these two conditions.

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from their inception until January 2025 to identify observational studies examining the association between atopic dermatitis and stroke risk. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed using the generic inverse variance method, and hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Additionally, sensitivity analyses and subgroup analyses were conducted to assess the stability of the results and explore potential sources of heterogeneity.

This meta-analysis included 12 observational studies, comprising 8 cohort studies, 2 case–control studies, and 3 cross-sectional studies, with a total of 14,517,146 participants. The analysis revealed a significant correlation between AD and the risk of stroke (n = 17, OR = 1.27, 95%CI = 1.14–1.43). Subgroup analyses indicated a particularly strong association among males (n = 3, OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.07–1.60) and in the context of ischemic stroke types (n = 5, OR = 1.14 95%CI = 1.00–1.30). Furthermore, sensitivity analyses demonstrated that the results were stable and reliable.

AD is independently associated with an increased risk of stroke, especially in men, and there is a notable association with ischemic stroke. Moreover, the risk appears to be positively correlated with the severity of AD.

Identifier INPLASY202550006.