Appearance-based bullying may be more commonly experienced by adolescent patients with skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis than children without skin conditions, according to a recent study published by Cheng et al in JAMA Dermatology. Investigators explained that bullying may lead to depression, suicidal ideation, and a reduced quality of life. In a cross-sectional study, researchers used the 2021 National Health Interview Survey to examine the prevalence of bullying among 3,207 individuals aged 12 to 17 years—11.9% of whom had atopic dermatitis—by asking their adult caregivers about the adolescents’ health and social experiences. Compared to those who didn’t have the condition, adolescent patients with atopic dermatitis were more likely to experience bullying (33.2% vs 19.0%) and cyberbullying (9.1% vs 5.8%). Researchers found no associations between atopic dermatitis and bullying perpetration. The investigators emphasized that adolescent patients with atopic dermatitis may be more likely to experience bullying at a higher frequency, report discrimination related to visible skin symptoms, and have fewer friendships or lower involvement in extracurricular activities compared to children without the condition. They concluded that further studies may be needed to better understand the prevalence and impact of bullying in this patient population.