The Skin Microbiota in Skin Disease and Eczema

The role of the skin microbiome in atopic eczema and other skin diseases remains to be investigated. There are reports indicating an association of skin-colonization of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and the severity of the disease. Skin colonizing pathogens might be important cofactor for persistence of eczema and other skin diseases, as well as the commensal, non-pathogenic, microflora of the skin might have protective effects. The aim of this research project is to investigate the skin microbiome in patients with eczema and other skin diseases and elucidate the relation to skin barrier impairment and severity of the skin disease. Specifically, we will: * Determine the skin microbiome and metagenome in skin of patients with eczema and other skin diseases. * Straighten out the relationship between the skin microbiome, the skin barrier, contact allergies, quality of life, eczema control and severity in patients with eczema and other skin diseases. * Identify biological markers, such as antimicrobial peptides, cytokines and gene-expression profiles in skin, and other factors contributing to the development and persistence of eczema and other skin diseases.