[Ultrastructure and microflora in follicles and comedones]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Microbiology
• Skin Biology

Background:

• The skin hosts a diverse microbial community.
• Sebaceous follicles and acne lesions are specific microenvironments.
• Understanding resident flora is crucial for skin health and disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the resident flora of the skin surface, sebaceous follicles, and acne comedones.
• To present nomenclature, topography, incidence, and pathogenic roles.
• To detail the ultrastructural morphology of key microorganisms.

Main Methods:

• Microscopic examination of skin surface, follicle, and comedone samples.
• Identification and characterization of resident microorganisms.
• Ultrastructural analysis using electron microscopy.

Main Results:

• Identification of Pityrosporum, micrococci, and Corynebacterium (Propionibacterium) acnes.
• Description of their distribution and prevalence in different skin sites.
• Detailed ultrastructural features of these bacteria and fungi.

Conclusions:

• Resident skin flora, including Pityrosporum, micrococci, and C. acnes, exhibit distinct characteristics.
• Ultrastructural morphology provides insights into their adaptation and potential pathogenicity.
• This foundational description aids in understanding skin microbiome dynamics.