Increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in children with atopic dermatitis: A case–control study from northern India

Abstract Background/Objectives Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that affects children worldwide, with potential associations to metabolic syndrome (MetS) and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Limited research exists on the interplay between AD, MetS, and NAFLD in the pediatric population. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and potential relationships among AD, MetS, and NAFLD in children. Methods A case–control study design was employed, recruiting 50 children with AD (median age: 9.5 years) and 50 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (median age: 11.5 years, p = .051). Data on demographic characteristics, clinical features, disease severity, treatment history, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory evaluations were collected. MetS and NAFLD were diagnosed based on established criteria. Results The prevalence of MetS was significantly higher in children with AD compared with controls (24% vs. 2%, p = .002). Significant differences for systolic blood pressure ( p < .001), diastolic blood pressure ( p = .012), and waist circumference ( p = .040) were observed between AD patients and controls. Children with AD had higher triglyceride levels ( p = .005). NAFLD was exclusively seen in moderate to severe AD cases (6% vs. 0%, p = .242). AD severity showed associations with increased body mass index ( p = .020). Conclusion This study highlights the increased prevalence of MetS and the potential association with NAFLD in children with AD. The findings suggest that AD may contribute to the development of metabolic abnormalities at an early age. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and explore preventive strategies for these interconnected conditions.