The Impact of Prenatal Nutrition on the Development of Atopic Dermatitis in Infancy and Childhood

Cutis. 2022 Mar;109(3):152-156. doi: 10.12788/cutis.0479.

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by skin barrier disruption and inflammation that has been associated with the development of food allergies, asthma, and allergic rhinitis, known as the atopic march. The prevalence of AD has been increasing globally, with a marked increase in developed countries. Although many studies have examined environmental factors contributing to the development of AD in infancy and childhood, less is understood about the influence of prenatal factors. Several studies have examined the role of maternal diet and nutrition on the development of AD in offspring; however, formal recommendations and robust trial data are lacking. Herein, we examine the existing literature surrounding maternal diet on the development of AD in infancy and childhood.

MeSH terms

  • Asthma*
  • Child
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / complications
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / etiology
  • Diet / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Food Hypersensitivity* / complications
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Rhinitis, Allergic* / complications
  • Rhinitis, Allergic* / epidemiology