EFFECTIVENESS OF SKIN BARRIER–RESTORING AGENTS IN PREVENTING RECURRENCE OF MICROBIAL ECZEMA

Abstract

Background: Microbial eczema is a recalcitrant dermatological condition characterized by skin barrier disruption and secondary bacterial colonization, predominantly by Staphylococcus aureus. In the continental climate of Uzbekistan, dry air conditions often exacerbate barrier defects, leading to frequent recurrences. Objective: This study, conducted at the Andijan State Medical Institute, aimed to evaluate the efficacy of adding a ceramide-dominant barrier repair emollient to standard therapy in prolonging remission and preventing recurrence in patients with microbial eczema. Methods: A randomized controlled trial involved 86 patients (aged 18–60) with microbial eczema. Patients were divided into two groups: the Control Group (n=43) received standard therapy (topical corticosteroids + antibiotics), while the Main Group (n=43) received standard therapy plus a specialized lipid-replenishing barrier repair cream containing ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. Parameters including Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL), and S. aureus colonization density were monitored over 6 months. Results: At the end of the 6-month follow-up, the Main Group demonstrated a significantly lower recurrence rate (18.6%) compared to the Control Group (53.5%) (p<0.01). TEWL values normalized significantly faster in the Main Group (from 28.4 to 12.1 g/m²/h) compared to controls (from 27.9 to 19.5 g/m²/h). Furthermore, recolonization with pathogenic S. aureus was observed in only 12% of the Main Group versus 45% of the Control Group. Conclusion: Incorporation of barrier repair therapy significantly improves long-term outcomes in microbial eczema. Restoring the stratum corneum integrity not only reduces water loss but also creates an environment resistant to bacterial reinfection.