Skin microbiota in women of reproductive age in norm and androgen-dependent dermatoses

Abstract

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and is colonized by divergent microorganisms, with a majority of them being harmless and even helpful for humans. The development of molecular methods for the identification of microorganisms has led to a conception that the skin microflora is greatly diverse and variable. Innate and adaptive immune responses can change the microbiota, and, on the other hand, the microbiota is involved in an immune response. The degree of colonization of the skin by different microorganisms varies greatly depending on the body sites, as well as endogenous and exogenous factors. There are significant gender differences in skin structure and physiology, which is substantially influenced by sex hormones. The investigation of the skin microbial component in androgen-dependent dermatoses, such as acne and seborrheic dermatitis, will contribute to understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of these diseases and to developing effective methods of therapy.