Functionality analysis of stratum corneum in atopic dermatitis cases

Atopic eczema is a chronic inflammatory dermatitis associated with atopy and characterized with relapses. In atopic individuals; disorders in lipid layer of epidermis, reduction of water binding capability in stratum corneum, and an increase in transepidermal water loss have been reported. Stratum corneum plays an important role in appearance and functionality of skin due to its water content and its association with skin surface lipids, and constitutes a fundamental barrier. In the present study, we aimed to compare the skin functionality measurement results of patients diagnosed as atopic eczema with each other and also with the control group, and intended to reveal the relation of those functionality results, with atopic eczema severity index (SCORAD), pruritus, xerosis, and insomnia. Epidermal moisture, transepidermal water loss, pH, and skin surface sebum measurements were applied by using Corneometer CM 825, Tewameter TM 300, pH-meter PH 905 and Sebumeter SM 815 probs in 30 controls and 30 patients diagnosed as atopic eczema. Atopic eczema severity index (SCORAD) was determined by dermatological examinations of the cases with atopic eczema; symptoms such as pruritus, xerosis, and insomnia were noted. In the present study, statistically significant decreases were determined in skin surface sebum level and stratum corneum hydration of patients with atopic eczema; these measurements revealed a significant correlation between severity of eczema and insomnia. While stratum corneum hydration was decreasing, skin pH level and transepidermal water loss were determined to be elevating. Our results revealed a disruption in epidermal barriers of cases with atopic eczema. Presence of correlation between several skin functionality measurements and eczema severity supported this result. Moreover, presence of a significant 4 correlation between transepidermal water loss and pruritus, demonstrated this measurement as a possible indicator for pruritus severity.