Evaluation of the relationship between Demodex infestation and obesity in rosacea patients.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The changes in the skin caused by obesity may predispose patients with rosacea to Demodex infestation (DI). Besides, identifying predisposing factors in these patients is important for initial treatment plan. AIMS: The main purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between DI and obesity in patients with rosacea. METHODS: Sociodemographic characteristics, body mass index, and clinical features of 130 rosacea patients were recorded. Demodex density was measured by noninvasive standard skin biopsy, and a determination of ≥5/cm2 mites was regarded as positive for DI. Patients with a BMI of 30 and above were categorized as the obese group, and those with a BMI below 30 were classified as the nonobese group. Moreover, patients were divided according to DI into positive and negative. These groups were compared with each other. RESULTS: Upon comparing the patients with and without obesity, it was noted that the obese patients had significantly higher rates of erythematotelangiectatic type rosacea, rosacea severity, and flushing complaints. Furthermore, results show that the DI was significantly more common in obese patients. The most determinant factors for predicting DI in rosacea patients were papulopustular type rosacea, obesity, and rosacea severity, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, DI was found to be more common in obese patients with rosacea. Besides, obesity was found to be one of the most determining factors in detecting DI in patients with rosacea.