THE INFLUENCE OF SKIN MICROBIOME IMBALANCE ON SPECIFIC PATHOLOGICAL SKIN CONDITIONS

The human skin microbiome, comprising bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms, plays a crucial role in maintaining skin homeostasis, modulating immune responses, and protecting against pathogens. Emerging research highlights that disruptions in microbial balance - dysbiosis - contribute to the pathogenesis of various dermatological conditions, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne vulgaris, rosacea, skin cancer, and impaired wound healing. Dysbiosis arises from genetic, environmental, and therapeutic factors, leading to altered barrier function, chronic inflammation, and disease exacerbation. In inflammatory disorders like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, pathogenic overgrowth (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus) and reduced microbial diversity drive immune dysregulation. Similarly, acne and rosacea are influenced by shifts in Cutibacterium acnes phylotypes and Demodex-associated bacteria, which promote inflammation and biofilm formation. The skin microbiome also impacts skin cancer progression by modulating DNA damage responses and immunotherapy efficacy, while chronic wounds exhibit delayed healing due to pathogenic dominance and biofilm persistence. Understanding the intricate host-microbiome interplay offers transformative potential for dermatology, paving the way for precision medicine interventions that harness microbial ecology to enhance skin health and treat disease.