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Updated: Jun 3, 2025

Isolation, Culture, and Characterization of Primary Dermal Fibroblasts from Human Keloid Tissue
Published on: July 28, 2023
Microbial analyses of infectious keloids on the anterior chest-a case-control study
Qian Chen1, Shen Hou1, Xiao-Yan Wu1
1Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
Abstract:
Some studies have confirmed that pathogens can cause infection through bacterial cultures on the surface of infectious keloids. However, further exploration of the comparison between infectious and non-infectious keloids and the bacterial flora of infectious foci is lacking. To investigate the differential flora of purulent secretions on the surface of infectious keloids compared to non-infectious keloids and to determine the microbial composition within the infectious foci. This case-control study involved 17 patients and obtained swab specimens from the surface of keloids in two groups, and from the infectious foci in the infectious group. Bacterial composition was analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. There were no statistical differences in the general condition of patients between the two groups. The presence of the phylum Actinobacteriota, and the orders Propionibacteriales and Corynebacteriales, as well as the genus Taibaiella, was greater on the surface of keloids in the infectious group. The most prevalent genera in infective sites were Staphylococcus, Peptoniphilus, and Cutibacterium. Microbial-associated gene pathways indicated a correlation with inflammation and tumor-like growth in keloids. There is a connection between infectious keloids and microorganisms, providing insights for predicting and treating keloid infections.
Insights
Infectious keloids show distinct bacterial surface differences compared to non-infectious ones. This study identifies specific bacterial genera linked to keloid infections, aiding in prediction and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Dermatology
- Genetics
Background:
- Pathogens are known to cause infections in keloids via surface bacterial cultures.
- Limited research exists comparing infectious and non-infectious keloids' bacterial flora.
- Understanding microbial composition in infectious keloid foci is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the differential flora of purulent secretions on infectious versus non-infectious keloids.
- To determine the microbial composition within the infectious foci of keloids.
- To explore the link between microbial presence and keloid pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 17 patients.
- Swab specimens collected from keloid surfaces (infectious and non-infectious groups) and infectious foci.
- Bacterial composition analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing.
Main Results:
- No statistical differences in general patient condition between groups.
- Phylum Actinobacteriota, orders Propionibacteriales, Corynebacteriales, and genus Taibaiella were more prevalent on infectious keloid surfaces.
- Dominant genera in infective sites included Staphylococcus, Peptoniphilus, and Cutibacterium.
- Microbial pathways correlated with inflammation and tumor-like keloid growth.
Conclusions:
- A significant connection exists between infectious keloids and specific microorganisms.
- Findings offer insights for predicting and treating keloid infections.
- Differential bacterial analysis aids in understanding keloid pathogenesis.

