The immune system is also responsible for maintaining the balance of the skin.
A fungus, known as Malassezia , is responsible for maintaining healthy skin and preparing the body to fight viruses and bacteria.
The yeast Malassezia produces the cytokine interleukin-17, which is a protein that organizes cells in other parts of the body.
Experts believe that if this cytokine is not released, there is no other defense mechanism that prevents the reproduction of infectious agents under the skin.
This fungus is usually harmless, but it can facilitate atopic dermatitis in people who already have the disease, contributing to the appearance of typical symptoms of it.
However, the researchers have not yet discovered the reason for this to happen and recommend further studies in this area.
Even so, the discovery is important, since it can help in the treatment of people with atopic dermatitis who, according to the research, should avoid contact with the fungus Malassezia .
The survey, carried out in Switzerland, was attended by patients from the Zurich University Hospital together with the Zurich Federal Institute of Technology.
Read more: Ointments and home remedies for mosquito bite allergy
What is atopic dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the skin. Although it is very similar to an allergy , atopic dermatitis is chronic and has no cure.
Some factors can lead to the development of the disease or worsening for those who already have it. These elements are:
- Very hot baths or sea / pool;
- Some types of fabric (wool and synthetic fibers);
- Anxiety and stress;
- Drastic changes in temperature;
- Strong chemicals (detergents, washing soap, soaps and creams).
The main symptoms of atopic dermatitis are itching, redness of the skin, flaking or presence of crusts.
The most affected places are knees, elbows, neck, feet and hands. The disease can manifest at any age. In case of suspicion, consult a dermatologist.
The atopic dermatitis is treatable and the diagnosis can be done quickly and easily. Finding out which microorganisms can aggravate the disease can be a big step towards treatments and, possibly, a cure.
