[Significance of skin colonization with Staphylococcus aureus in atopic dermatitis]

In patients with atropic dermatitis, skin of normal appearance as well as skin that has undergone pathological changes is heavily colonized by Staphylococcus aureus. Studies have determined certain factors that favor this colonization. The lesions show highly elevated S. aureus counts, resulting in further damage to the skin. This finding is supported by the fact that antibacterial treatment in combination with steroids is superior to steroids alone.