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Regarding the inference of causality in observational non-controlled studies. Comment on “Assessment of sexual function and its association with quality of life and disease severity in patients with atopic dermatitis”

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Regarding the inference of causality in observational non-controlled studies.Comment on ''Assessment of sexual function and its association with quality of life and disease severity in patients with atopic dermatitis'' ଝ Dear Editor,Chronic diseases such as Atopic Dermatitis (AD), beyond physical symptoms, affect multiple dimensions of life, which include relationships, finances, occupational functioning, psychological well-being, self-esteem, body image, sleep, and affect household dynamics.1 We commend Dr. Bressan et al. for addressing the impact of AD on overall sexual function and satisfaction.2 Nevertheless, we'd like to highlight some methodological considerations that warrant caution regarding the interpretation of these findings.Overall quality-of-life measurements vary according to the study population and cultural context.3 Although the QS-F/M have been validated in Brazilian samples, their internal consistency should be formally assessed for each study population (e.g., using McDonald's ) to ensure measurement reliability.4 Additionally, the 10-items of these instruments capture distinct domains of sexuality, which may be differentially affected.The domain-specific information is clinically relevant as it may guide targeted interventions.As the authors did not provide an item-level interpretation, the precision of the information on sexual impairment remains unclear.The modest sample size results in low statistical power for most comparisons and correlation analyses.This undermines confidence in subgroup-specific conclusions, especially when comparing them.Furthermore, the assertion that women are more affected than men may reflect differential measurement properties of QS-F/M, sociocul-

Source: Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia

DOI: 10.1016/j.abd.2026.501448

Authors: Vanessa Rigoni Marcato, Anna Carolina Miola, Paula Rosa Coutinho Goulart Borges Mariottoni, Hélio Amante Miot

Institution: Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp)

Language: English

Topic: Statistical Methods in Epidemiology

Subfield: Statistics and Probability

Field: Mathematics

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,700