Climate change and atopic dermatitis: is there a link?

Int J Dermatol. 2019 Mar;58(3):279-282. doi: 10.1111/ijd.14016. Epub 2018 Jun 5.

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease with a growing health concern, because of its high prevalence and associated low quality of life. The etiology of AD is multifactorial with interaction between various factors such as genetic predisposition, immune, and importantly, environmental factors. Since climate change is associated with a profound shift in environmental factors, we suggest that AD is being influenced by climate change. This review highlights the effects of ultraviolet light, temperature, humidity, pollens, air pollutants, and their interaction between them contributing to the epidemiology and pathophysiology of AD.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants / adverse effects
  • Climate Change*
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / epidemiology*
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Humidity
  • Pollen / adverse effects
  • Prevalence
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Temperature
  • Ultraviolet Rays / adverse effects

Substances

  • Air Pollutants