THE EFFECT OF PROPIONIBACTERIUM ACNES ON PATIENTS WITH OVERSTEROID SYNDROME AT THE ACNE INSTITUTE CLINIC

Abstract

Overuse topical corticosteroids can disrupt the skin microbiome, and lead to increasing Propionibacterium acnes colonization and worsening inflammation. This study aims to analyze the impact of Propionibacterium acnes on patients with oversteroid syndrome. This cross-sectional study was conducted at Acne Institute Clinic over two weeks, involving 21 patients with a history of prolonged steroid use. The Meicet Pro-A skin analyzer was used to assess bacterial colonization and skin condition. The study found that 71.42% of patients had moderate Propionibacterium acnes colonization, 23.8% had mild colonization, and 4.76% had severe colonization. Increased bacterial presence was associated with higher porphyrin fluorescence, excess sebum production, and clogged pores, leading to acneiform eruptions. Overuse of topical corticosteroids significantly increases Propionibacterium acnes colonization, aggravating inflammatory skin conditions. Proper regulation and awareness of steroid use are crucial to prevent oversteroid syndrome