Microbiota and Dermatology

Microbiota is a term that describes the microorganisms found on all anatomical sites and includes bacteria, viruses and funghi. Microbiome refers to the collection of these microorganisms containing genome (1). It has been estimated that there are ten times more microbial cells than body cells in humans (2). We can imagine these microorganisms to be a kind of a microbial organ. Until recently the studies have been focused on microorganisms as agents of disease, but now they are recognized as regulators of the immune system and therefore important factor for the human health (3).

Primary function of the skin, which is the largest organ of the human body, is to act as a barrier against endogenous and exogenous factors. The skin is in direct contact with the external environment and therefore providing a home to various microorganisms.
These microorganisms have a symbiotic relationship with the skin and help maintaining the homeostasis of the skin by regulating the immune system. Disruption of this relationship can lead to various dermatological diseases.
The aim of this review is to evaluate the skin microbiome and it’s role in dermatological diseases.