The importance of biomarker testing in eczema treatment

Eczema is the most common chronic skin condition worldwide. 11-25% of children and 10% of adults suffer from it. Treatment through the general practitioner or dermatologist is often limited and more focused on symptom management. It is a complex skin condition that can often be as frustrating as it is persistent. While hereditary factors may play a role, daily triggers are often the key to controlling outbreaks. Through targeted biomarker testing, patients can gain a better understanding of their personal triggers and the effectiveness of their treatments. In this blog, we discuss which specific biomarkers are important in eczema and how you can use this information to manage your condition.

What are biomarkers
Biomarkers are signals in your body that doctors can measure to see how healthy you are. Imagine your body is a car and biomarkers are the lights on the dashboard. When a light comes on, you know something is wrong with the car. That's how biomarkers work for your body, too.

Key biomarkers for eczema

1. Vitamin A: This vitamin is important for maintaining the integrity and function of the skin barrier. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to dry, flaky skin, which can exacerbate eczema symptoms. In addition, vitamin A helps regulate sebum production, which is essential for maintaining the skin's natural moisture barrier, preventing dehydration.
2. Vitamin D: Vitamin D has immune modulating properties, meaning it helps regulate the immune system so that the immune system does not overreact. If your vitamin D level is below 75 nmol/l, you are deficient.
3. Zinc: This mineral is essential for wound healing. Zinc deficiency is often linked to increased susceptibility to skin irritations and may also affect phillagrin production. Phillagrin is a protein essential for the formation of the skin barrier. Zinc facilitates the production of phillagrine. Insulin is also necessary for the production of phillagrine, so preventing insulin resistance by adjusting diet and lifestyle is very important.
4. Omega-3-6 Index: Omega fatty acids are important for skin health, especially in reducing inflammation. An unbalanced omega-3 to omega-6 ratio can contribute to inflammatory conditions such as eczema.

Identifying triggers

In addition to monitoring essential nutrients, identifying specific eczema triggers is also important. Bloodtesting.nl's "What May I Eat" test (WMIE) offers a unique opportunity to identify food sensitivities that may exacerbate eczema. This test can help create a personalized nutrition plan to avoid certain food triggers.

How do biomarker tests work?

Biomarker testing involves taking a blood sample and analyzing it for various values that are important for people with eczema. These tests can help with diet and lifestyle modifications and, if needed, supplementation to monitor the condition.

The importance of a personalized approach

Each eczema patient responds differently to treatments and triggers. Therefore, a personalized approach in treatment is not only desirable, but often necessary. By having your blood levels tested regularly, you can develop a treatment and lifestyle specifically tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

Biomarker testing offers a science-based method to address the root causes of your symptoms. By regularly checking vitamins, minerals and your omega-3-6 balance, along with a thorough analysis of food sensitivities through the WMIE test, you can create an effective strategy in addition to addressing emotional stressors. Eczema is a challenging condition, but with the right tools and insights, you can regain control.

Written by Cora Beishuizen