Sensory processing patterns of adults with atopic dermatitis

Background  Atopic dermatitis (AD) has been associated with sensory hypersensitivity in children. Objective  To examine the sensory profile of adults with AD using a standardized questionnaire that measures sensory processing and related behaviours in daily living. Methods  Thirty-two patients aged 18–53 years with AD and 32 healthy, sex- and age-matched control subjects completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP). Severity of AD was assessed by the Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD). Results  Patients with AD showed higher sensory sensitivity and avoidance than the controls, mainly in the tactile, vestibular, visual and auditory modalities. Conclusions  Adults with AD may suffer from sensory hypersensitivity. Additional studies should examine the influence of the peripheral and the central nervous system on sensory hypersensitivity. Better understanding of the sensory impairment of patients with AD may help improving treatment strategies for the disease.