The Effects of Heat and Pollution on Autoinflammatory Skin Disease

Dr. Alexandra Charo, an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School, addressed the audience about the impacts of heat and pollution on autoinflammatory skin diseases, particularly focusing on hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). With increasing global temperatures, particularly in urban areas where heat disparities correlate with socioeconomic factors, dermatologic conditions such as HS can be exacerbated by heat due to impaired heat dissipation and increased friction from sweating. Dr. Charo highlighted recent studies showing a significant rate of HS flare-ups during hotter months, supported by statistical data that indicated a relationship between temperature increases and emergency room visits for HS flares. She noted the need for dermatologists to devise seasonal strategies for managing HS and other heat-related conditions, such as prescribing antibiotics, recommending breathable clothing, and considering mental health aspects due to the chronic nature of such diseases. Dr. Charo encouraged the exploration of similar heat effects on various dermatologic conditions and the necessity to recognize and address the health ramifications of rising temperatures and climate change. In closing, she expressed gratitude to her colleagues and students for their support, emphasizing the importance of awareness regarding the dangerous influence of heat associated with climate change.