All-cause and cause-specific mortality in atopic dermatitis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

[INTRODUCTION] This meta-analysis evaluates the risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).

[METHODS] A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library (from inception to April 2025) was conducted for cohort studies comparing mortality risks in AD patients versus controls, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Two reviewers screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using random-effects models in Stata 14.0, with sensitivity analyses, subgroup analyses, and publication bias assessments.

[RESULTS] Nine cohort studies were included. AD patients had significantly increased risks of all-cause mortality [HR = 1.222, 95% CI (1.117-1.336)], as well as mortality due to infectious diseases [HR = 1.606, CI (1.087-2.372)], cancer [HR = 1.129, CI (1.015-1.256)], respiratory diseases [HR = 1.381, CI (1.044-1.825)], and gastrointestinal diseases [HR = 1.658, CI (1.002-2.743)]. Subgroup analyses revealed a higher risk of all-cause mortality in prospective studies compared to retrospective studies, with significantly higher risks in studies from Europe and Asia.

[CONCLUSIONS] AD is associated with an elevated risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality, underscoring the need for improved monitoring and targeted interventions. Future research should incorporate more diverse populations and study designs.

[PROSPERO IDENTIFIER] CRD420251038553.