Impact of Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis on Neurocognitive Function

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PROJECT SUMMARY / ABSTRACT The overall objective of this K23 application is to provide support for the additional training and experience that Dr. Joy Wan, a pediatric dermatologist and epidemiologist, needs to develop an independent, patient-oriented research program in pediatric atopic dermatitis and chronic skin disease. Research: Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, affects 20% of children and frequently overlaps with the critical period of cognitive development that occurs in the first two decades of life. Although children with atopic dermatitis are more likely to suffer from learning disabilities, inattention, and poor memory, the impact of atopic dermatitis on cognition has not been rigorously examined. This project will: (1) test the hypothesis that atopic dermatitis, particularly when severe or persistent, is both directly and indirectly associated with cognitive impairments in children, and (2) identify modifiable risk factors that mediate the effects of atopic dermatitis on cognitive function. To achieve these aims, Dr. Wan will use data from a longitudinal study of over 14,000 individuals followed from birth until their 20s and also prospectively enroll a cohort of children with active atopic dermatitis. The results of this project will fill critical gaps in knowledge about the impact of atopic dermatitis on cognition and carry significant implications for clinical practice. Candidate: Dr. Wan earned her MD and MSCE degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, where she also completed dermatology residency followed by pediatric dermatology fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Wan is pursuing post-doctoral training in epidemiology with the goal of becoming an R01-funded investigator and leader in pediatric dermatology research. Environment: Dr. Wan will be primarily mentored by Dr. Joel Gelfand, a dermatologist and epidemiologist with expertise in patient-oriented research in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, and co-mentored by Dr. Susan Furth, a pediatric nephrologist with expertise in chronic disease epidemiology and patient-oriented pediatric research, Dr. Kristin Linn, a biostatistician with expertise in advanced statistical methods, and Dr. Nina Thomas, a pediatric neuropsychologist with expertise in neurocognition research. She will be further advised by a complementary committee of NIH-funded investigators in pediatric dermatology, neuropsychology, epidemiology, and atopic dermatitis. With its robust research infrastructure and rich resources, Penn provides an ideal environment for Dr. Wan’s research and career growth. Career Development: Dr. Wan’s proposal includes advanced training in longitudinal data analysis and causal inference, neurocognitive development, and patient-reported outcome measures, achieved through a combination of didactic coursework, practical research experience, and focused mentorship. The support of a K23 award will enable Dr. Wan to launch a successful career as an independent investigator dedicated to optimizing the health, social, and life outcomes for children with chronic skin disease.