The Human Skin Microbiome in Selected Cutaneous Diseases

Abstract

The human skin harbors a wide variety of microbes that, together with their genetic information and host interactions, form the human skin microbiome. The role of the human microbiome in the development of various diseases has lately gained interest. According to several studies, changes in the cutaneous microbiota are involved in the pathophysiology of several dermatoses. A better delineation of the human microbiome and its interactions with the innate and adaptive immune systems could lead to a better understanding of these diseases, as well as the opportunity to achieve new therapeutic modalities. The present review centers on the most recent knowledge on skin microbiome and its participation in the pathogenesis of several skin disorders: atopic and seborrheic dermatitis, alopecia areata, psoriasis and acne.

Keywords: acne; alopecia areata; atopic dermatitis; psoriasis; seborrheic dermatitis; skin microbiome.

Figure 1

Moist sites include the axilla, antecubital fossa, navel, groin, popliteal fossa and soles. Oily sites include the forehead, alar creases, retroauricular creases and the back. Dry sites of the skin include the forearms, hands, buttocks and legs.