Early Skin Biomarkers in Infants May Predict Atopic Dermatitis Before Symptoms Develop

A recent study led by researchers at National Jewish Health has uncovered that changes in the cheek skin barrier during infancy could serve as early indicators of atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly known as eczema, long before symptoms become apparent. This breakthrough research suggests that monitoring specific skin biomarkers in the cheek area, particularly within the first month of life, can help identify infants at higher risk for developing AD, which is often associated with food allergies and can increase the likelihood of asthma in later childhood.

The study involved analyzing skin samples obtained through minimally invasive tape stripping from infants' cheeks and forearms at a very early stage—initially within the first month and again at three months of age. The cohort consisted of 18 mother-infant pairs, recruited during the COVID-19 pandemic, with eight infants ultimately developing AD by their first year.

Findings revealed that biomarker changes in the cheek skin appeared prior to those observed in other areas, emphasizing the importance of this region in early detection efforts. Jessica Hui, MD, the study's principal investigator, highlighted that these early skin alterations suggest the foundational development of AD begins very early in life, especially in exposed areas like the cheek. This insight opens possibilities for preventive strategies targeting at-risk infants.

Furthermore, the research underscores the influence of maternal and environmental factors during pregnancy, which may impact the infant's skin barrier formation. The observation that a significant portion of the cohort had a family history of AD emphasizes the potential of early screening in high-risk populations.

This pioneering study, published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, marks a significant advancement in understanding the disease's early pathogenesis. By focusing on the cheek area, which matures later and is often exposed to allergens, clinicians may better predict and prevent the development of AD. Future interventions could revolve around enhancing skin barrier function during this critical period, potentially reducing the incidence of this chronic skin condition.