Microbial Colonization in Atopic Dermatitis and its Associated Risk Factors in Children from Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common chronic relapsing multifactorial inflammatory skin disease. Colonization of bacteria, mainly Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) has been increased and raised antibiotic resistance to different antibiotics. Objectives: The objectives of this study are to investigate the microbial colonization in atopic dermatitis patients and its associated risk factors in children from Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. Methods and materials: Skin swabs were collected from AD patients (n = 78) and from healthy controls (n = 44) from Aseer regional hospital. AD patients were examined, bacteria were isolated and identified, and the severity of the disease was determined using a standardized scale: Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD). Results: S. aureus was the most prevalent, followed by S. epidermidis, and S. lentus whereas S. haemolyticus, Pantoea and S. hominis were prevalent in healthy controls. The severity of AD was linked to staphylococcal colonization. The occurrence of AD in age group 2 to 12 years were at risk more than others. Conclusion: Staphylococcus spp. were positively correlated with AD incidence and its severity. The study concluded that S. aureus is the leading pathogenic determinant in the occurrence and outcome of AD in children.