What is the role of Staphylococcus aureus and herpes virus infections in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing disease. Genetic, environmental and immunological factors are involved in its pathophysiology. Individuals with AD have an increased predisposition to colonization and/or infection of the skin by various pathogens, especially Staphylococcus aureus and herpes simplex virus. The composition of their skin microbiome is also different, and changes during flares. The disease severity can be related to the degree of colonization by S. aureus. In addition, the presence of this bacterial species can predispose the host to more severe and disseminated viral infections. This article reviews the role of S. aureus and herpes virus infections and the skin microbiome in the pathogenesis of AD and their importance in the treatment and prevention strategies of this dermatosis.