Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease associated with immune dysregulation. Research suggests environmental exposures may contribute to AD development and exacerbation. AD is classified in the realm of allergies and asthma. Sensitivities to mycotoxins and other allergens may cause AD, as well as other inflammatory diseases. This paper reviews evidence on the relationship between mold exposure and AD. Multiple clinical studies find higher rates of AD and worsening symptoms in water-damaged buildings with mold contamination. Experimental studies demonstrate immune and skin barrier responses to mold allergens that may exacerbate symptoms of AD. However, significant research gaps remain regarding underlying mechanisms. Additional longitudinal studies are needed to establish causality between mold and AD while accounting for genetic and other environmental factors. Determining the impact of mold on AD has important implications for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Loonker et al. (2024) studied this question.
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