Atopic dermatitis is inversely associated with hepatitis B antigen positivity: a population‐based cohort study

Abstract Background No clear association between hepatitis B virus ( HBV ) infection and atopic dermatitis ( AD ) has been established. Some studies have reported that subjects with HBV had an increased risk of atopy; other studies reported an inverse association between HBV seropositivity and allergic diseases. Objective We evaluated the association between AD and hepatitis B antigen ( HB sAg) positivity using Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data. Methods In total, 14 776 participants aged >19 years were included in the analysis. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the odds ratio of HB sAg positivity in association with AD and asthma. Results The prevalence of HB sAg positivity was lower in individuals with AD than in those without AD (mean [ SE ], 0.7% [0.4] vs. 3.7% [0.2]; P < 0.001). However, HB sAg positivity was not significantly associated with asthma (3.7% [0.2] vs. 2.8% [0.8]; P < 0.001). HB sAg positivity decreased the risk of AD significantly ( OR = 0.223; 95% CI = 0.069–0.72). Conclusions This study demonstrates an inverse association between AD and HB sAg positivity using a nationwide, population‐based, cross‐sectional health examination and survey.