Vitamin D status and body mass index in children with atopic dermatitis : a pilot study in Italian children

Background Vitamin D (vitD) is involved in important regulatory functions of the innate and adaptive immune system. So, it has been hypothesized that vitD might influence the course of atopic dermatitis (AD). Also obesity may have impact on immune system. The aim of our study was to investigate vitamin D status and body mass index (BMI) in urban children with AD. Methods 52 children with AD and 43 healthy children were enrolled. SCORAD, BMI and serum vitD levels were evaluated. Results There was an association between vitamin D and the AD occurrence but neither between vitamin D and the AD severity, nor between vitamin D and BMI. A positive correlation was observed between BMI and the AD severity in males. Conclusions This study highlights the complex inter-relationships among atopic dermatitis severity, vitamin D and body mass index and suggests the need to investigate the role of genetic factors and/or gender-related differences to possibly identify new prevention strategies.