Researchers Sheds New Light on Eczema

Aug, 2020 - By SMI

Around 15% of children and 2 to 5% of adults around the world suffer from symptoms such as inflamed, dry, and itchy skin with open pores.

Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a condition where patches of skin become rough, cracked, red, itchy, and inflamed. Different types and stages of eczema affect around 31.6% of individuals in the United States alone. A new study by Binghamton University's research team may help peel back unhealthy skin layers and bring them closer to a cure. Around 15% of children and 2 to 5% of adults around the world suffer from symptoms such as inflamed, dry, and itchy skin with open pores. However, there are innumerable treatments are available for eczema such as natural remedies and medical creams.

In this new research, the team combines two characteristics of eczema research that are hardly ever studied together. One consequence of atopic dermatitis is a low level of skin oils known as lipids, especially a group known as ceramides. Lipids on the skin surface function to regulate hydration and help protect the skin from foreign invaders, either directly through their antimicrobial activity or indirectly through immune signaling. Another outcome of eczema is an increase in staphylococcus bacteria, which may cause infection and irritation. According to the researchers, genetics can play an important role in determining whether someone has eczema.

Moreover, in some occupations, such as food processing workers, hairdressers, metalworkers, and healthcare professionals, individuals are more likely to experience skin infection and irritation. The staph bacteria need more numbers to grow through the stratum corneum (the outer layer of the skin) because they are immobile. According to the team, the bacteria do not grow around the skin, however, they do grow inside the skin. With lipid deficiency, the skin becomes more vulnerable to bacterial infection and invasion of the underlying skin tissue, either through occupational or genetic risks. However, research has not uncovered all the secrets of atopic dermatitis, further investigation is needed.