search by
Copyright @ Pol J Cosmetol
Pol J Cosmetol 2012, 15(2): 66-70pl  The significance of the epidermal barrier in contact dermatitis pathophysiologyMilena Wojciechowska 1/, Katarzyna Napiórkowska 2/ 1/ Zakład Polityki Zdrowotnej i Zabezpieczenia Społecznego Collegium Medicum im. L. Rydygiera w Bydgoszczy Uniwersytet Mikołaja Kopernika w Toruniu 2/ Katedra i Klinika Alergologii, Immunologii Klinicznej i Chorób Wewnętrznych Collegium Medicum im. L. Rydygiera w Bydgoszczy Uniwersytet Mikołaja Kopernika w Toruniu Summary The complex skin structure is composed of the epidermic, the dermis, and the subcutaneous tissue. The primary function of the skin is to provide protection from harmful external factors. An important functional skin protection structure is the stratum corneum, which, by its proper structure and efficiency of metabolic processes, determinates the correct maintenance of protective functions. The hydrolipidic film, containing mainly ceramides, cholesterol and free fatty acids, forms an occlusive barrier preventing the transepidermal water loss. Incorrect functioning of epidermal proteases impairs the exfoliation and skin renewal process. Also, impaired filaggrin metabolism and activity, and changes in pH values, impact the correct skin barrier functions. Abnormalities in the functioning of epidermal protective barrier favour easier penetration of irritating and allergenic substances, which are clinically manifested, inter alia, as contact dermatitis. Key words: epidermal barrier, contact dermatitis, lipids, proteases, filaggrin, pH |