The Association Between Low-Grade Systemic Inflammation and Skin Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Survey in the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966

The study, involving 1,930 adults from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966, found an association between low-grade systemic inflammation, as indicated by high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, and skin diseases such as atopic eczema, onychomycosis, and rosacea. Adjusted odds ratios showed that individuals with atopic eczema and onychomycosis had a significantly higher likelihood of elevated hs-CRP levels, suggesting that these skin conditions may be linked to systemic inflammation. The study also noted that factors like body mass index and sex could affect CRP levels, and acknowledged limitations such as the lack of data on menstrual cycle phases and the need for repeated hs-CRP measurements. The findings suggest that patients with these dermatological conditions might be at an increased risk for inflammatory diseases, which should be considered in their clinical management.