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The microbial colonization of inflamed acne vulgaris lesions
J P Leeming1, K T Holland, W J Cuncliffe
1University Department of Microbiology, University of Leeds, U.K.
Abstract:
Seventy one papules in the early stages of inflammatory development were isolated from acne vulgaris affected skin and their content of micro-organisms characterized. The progress of lesions prior to excision was monitored by tracing an area of the upper back onto a transparent acetate sheet. This template was used the next day, and in some cases after 3 days, to identify inflamed lesions of less than 1 day and 2-3 days duration. These were biopsied, and pilosebaceous units isolated by micro-dissection, homogenized and microbial populations studied by viable counting and microscopy. Propionibacteria colonised 68% of '1 day' duration lesions and 79% of '3 day' duration lesions; staphylococci colonized 19% and 32% respectively and Pityrosporum spp. (Malassezia furfur) were found in 52% and 68%. Although the prevalence of each microbial group was higher in the more chronic lesions, these differences were not statistically significant. The microbial profile of inflamed lesions was similar both qualitatively and quantitatively to non-inflamed lesions studied previously. These results call into question the role of micro-organisms as the initiators of inflammation in acne vulgaris.
Insights
Microbial colonization in acne lesions, including Propionibacteria and Staphylococci, was analyzed. Findings suggest microbes may not initiate inflammation in acne vulgaris.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
- Cutaneous Biology
Background:
- Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition characterized by inflammatory papules.
- The role of microorganisms in initiating acne inflammation is debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the microbial content of early-stage inflammatory acne vulgaris lesions.
- To investigate the association between microbial colonization and lesion duration.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and monitoring of 71 inflammatory papules from acne-affected skin.
- Micro-dissection of pilosebaceous units, followed by viable counting and microscopy.
- Analysis of microbial populations in lesions of 1-day and 2-3 days duration.
Main Results:
- Propionibacteria colonized 68% of 1-day lesions and 79% of 3-day lesions.
- Staphylococci and Pityrosporum spp. (Malassezia furfur) showed increased prevalence in older lesions.
- No statistically significant differences in microbial prevalence were found between lesion age groups.
Conclusions:
- The microbial profile of inflamed acne lesions is similar to non-inflamed lesions.
- The findings question the role of microorganisms as primary initiators of acne vulgaris inflammation.