Therapy of atopic eczema - the role of antibacterial treatment

The presence of Staphylococcus aureus in skin lesions is very frequent among people with atopic eczema. Despite the fact that atopic eczema is not an infectious dermatosis, correlation was demonstrated between the density of the bacteria in skin lesion and the intensity of inflammation. This coincidence is explained by the reaction of the immune system to immunotoxins produced by S. aureus. Clinical experience teaches us that antibacterial treatment against S. aureus is one of the key factors in the therapy of atopic eczema as it can reduce the need for corticosteroids. This article discusses mechanisms of action of staphylococcal superantigens, along with clinical signs and therapeutic strategies in infected atopic eczema.

Key words: atopic eczema, atopic dermatitis, Staphylococcus aureus, therapy.

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