Retrospective Study on Acute Effects of Mount Etna Volcanic Eruption in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis

Mount Etna, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, is Europe’s most active volcano. Over the past five years, it has experienced numerous significant eruptive episodes, with the most recent occurring in August 2024. During this event, substantial amounts of volcanic ash were dispersed over densely populated areas, particularly in the province of Catania. Environmental factors, such as volcanic eruptions, are known to influence inflammatory skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis. We analyzed a cohort of patients with atopic dermatitis who were exposed to volcanic ash during the Mount Etna eruption in August 2024, aiming to evaluate the impact of the eruption on respiratory and cutaneous symptoms, treatment response, use of protective equipment, and changes in EASI scores over an eight-week period. A total of 67 Caucasian atopic dermatitis patients (mean age 41.2) were assessed after a volcanic eruption. Symptom worsening occurred in 58.9% (respiratory) and 26.9% (skin) of patients. EASI scores significantly increased (p < 0.05). No clinical difference was found between treatment types or mask use, which did not prevent symptom exacerbation. Volcanic ash exposure significantly worsened respiratory and skin symptoms in atopic dermatitis patients, underscoring the need for improved protective measures and further research on environmental triggers of chronic inflammatory conditions.