Study of Oxidative Free Radical Damage and the Status of Vitamin-C in Atopic Dermatitis Patient

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by oxidative stress and free radical damage. This study aims to investigate the oxidative stress marker, serum malondialdehyde (MDA), and the antioxidant status of vitamin C in patients with atopic dermatitis. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional control study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry in collaboration with the Department of Dermatology at Burdwan Medical College and Hospital. The study was conducted over 18 months, from July 2019 to January 2021. A total of 50 AD patients (Group A) and 40 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers (Group B) were recruited. Inclusion criteria involved AD patients diagnosed by suitable criteria, while exclusion criteria included conditions or habits that could affect oxidative stress or vitamin C levels. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and vitamin C levels were measured using colorimetric and ELISA methods, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-test and chi-square tests to determine significance. Results: The study found no significant difference in the age and sex distribution between the case and control groups. In Group A, 68% of patients were female, and a mixed diet was the most common dietary habit (76%). Family history was positive in 24% of cases, while 32% reported sun allergy. The mean serum vitamin C level was significantly lower in the case group (0.846±0.1 mg/dl) compared to the control group (0.918±0.04 mg/dl, p=0.005). Conversely, the mean serum MDA level was significantly higher in the case group (4.429±0.04 nmol/ml) than in the control group (3.432±0.13 nmol/ml, p=0.01). A negative correlation was observed between MDA and vitamin C levels in the case group (correlation factor = -0.467, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings indicate that atopic dermatitis is associated with increased oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant status, as evidenced by elevated MDA and reduced vitamin C levels. The negative correlation between MDA and vitamin C suggests that oxidative stress plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of AD, highlighting the potential benefit of antioxidant therapy in managing this condition.