Skin barrier dysfunction has been reported in both atopic dermatitis (AD) and food allergy (FA). However, only one-third of patients with AD have FA. The purpose of this study was to use a minimally invasive skin tape strip sampling method and a multiomics approach to determine whether children with AD and FA (AD FA+) have stratum corneum (SC) abnormalities that distinguish them from AD without FA (AD FA−) and nonatopic (NA) controls. Transepidermal water loss was found to be increased in AD FA+. Filaggrin and the proportion of ω-hydroxy fatty acid sphingosine ceramide content in nonlesional skin of children with AD FA+ were substantially lower than in AD FA− and NA skin. These abnormalities correlated with morphologic changes in epidermal lamellar bilayer architecture responsible for barrier homeostasis. Shotgun metagenomic studies revealed that the nonlesional skin of AD FA+ had increased abundance of Staphylococcus aureus compared to NA. Increased expression of keratins 5, 14, and 16 indicative of hyperproliferative keratinocytes was observed in the SC of AD FA+. The skin transcriptome of AD FA+ had increased gene expression for dendritic cells and type 2 immune pathways. A network analysis revealed keratins 5, 14, and 16 were positively correlated with AD FA+, whereas filaggrin breakdown products were negatively correlated with AD FA+. These data suggest that the most superficial compartment of nonlesional skin in AD FA+ has unique properties associated with an immature skin barrier and type 2 immune activation.

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Nickel is the most common allergen, though many other sources of contact allergens are hidden in everyday products, such as preservatives and fragrances. In screening for contact allergy, it is important to inquire about environmental and occupational exposures, including wet work and mechanisms of irritation, such as frequent hand washing or wiping. The mechanisms of contact dermatitis are complex and may involve different T cell signaling pathways. Patch testing is required for diagnosis, and patch testing with patient's personal products is recommended. Management currently focuses on allergen avoidance, topical therapies, or corticosteroids; some biologics may be indicated for treatment.

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Practice Options from Beyond Our Pages focuses on identifying, critiquing, and placing into context research studies published in other journals that have the potential to change our clinical practices. It is written by Allergy-Immunology Fellows partnered with faculty members, and does not require an invitation for submission. This feature is coordinated by Editorial Board members