The skin microbiota in pregnant women suffering from atopic dermatitis

Aim. To study the skin microbiota of pregnant women suffering from atopic dermatitis.

Methods. 53 women of reproductive age suffering from atopic dermatitis (28 pregnant and 25 non-pregnant) were examined. The control group included dermatologically healthy women (25 pregnant and 25 non-pregnant). Prior to treatment initiation and on 15-day of study pathological process spread, the SCORAD index (scoring of atopic dermatitis - atopic dermatitis severity assessment), dermatology life quality index determination were conducted. In addition, microbiological study of material taken from the forehead, elbow bend skin and visually unaltered forearm skin was performed.

Results. In women (pregnant and non-pregnant), suffering from atopic dermatitis skin total bacterial load is increased. In all groups, the skin microbiota is presented mainly by staphylococci: in dermatologically healthy people - coagulase-negative, in atopic dermatitis - Staphylococcusя aureus. In atopic dermatitis Staphylococcus aureus is isolated from both lesions and visually unaltered skin. In pregnant women with atopic dermatitis skin bacterial load was higher, Staphylococcus aureus was found more commonly. The skin microbiota in dermatologically healthy women was more diverse in respect of species comparing with patients with atopic dermatitis. Basic care remedies use leads to clinical improvement and a decrease in the skin total bacterial load and Staphylococcus aureus load. Daily use of emollients has no effect on saprophytic microorganisms.

Conclusion. In pregnant patients with atopic dermatitis higher skin total bacterial load and higher rate of skin colonization by Staphylococcus aureus are observed.