Exploring the Impact of Environmental Temperature and Humidity on Childhood Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms: A Systematic Review

Context: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disease in children, often exacerbated by environmental factors. Aims: We systematically reviewed randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies assessing the impact of ambient temperature and humidity on childhood AD symptoms. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search of EBSCO, ProQuest, and PubMed on October 31, 2024, identified five eligible studies (total n = 415,379; aged 2–13 years; follow-up of 4–34 months) that employed standardized symptom assessments (SCORAD, EASI, and ISAAC-C). Results: Most studies found that increased temperatures improved AD severity, with temperature rises of 0.5°C–15°C reducing symptom scores by 12.8%–65%, whereas low temperatures and humidity levels were generally associated with worsening symptoms (respiratory rate range: 1.05–1.22). However, high humidity also aggravated AD in some cohorts, likely by promoting sweat retention and microbial growth. The heterogeneous effects of humidity underline the complex interplay between climatic conditions and skin barrier function. Conclusions: Environmental temperature and humidity significantly influence childhood AD, suggesting that climate-based management strategies may optimize symptom control and quality of life.