By Marcelline Goyen
Eczema and the Gut-Skin Axis: the Role of the Microbiome, Nutrition and the Immune System
Eczema, and particularly atopic dermatitis (AD), is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness, itching, scaling, oozing lesions, a disrupted skin barrier and an elevated skin pH. Although eczema is often regarded primarily as a skin disorder, an increasing body of scientific evidence shows that both its origin and persistence extend far beyond the skin itself. In particular, the gut-skin axis, the gut, the gut microbiome and the immune system play a crucial role.
Classical explanations for eczema
Traditionally, eczema has been explained by a combination of:
- Genetic predisposition, such as mutations in the filaggrin gene, which is essential for an intact skin barrier;
- Impaired skin barrier function;
- Immune dysregulation, mainly Th2-driven inflammatory responses;
- Environmental factors, including allergens, irritants, cosmetics, skincare products, water exposure and climate.
