The
gastrointestinal tract is the largest immune reactive surface inside
the human body, with a total surface area comparable to the size
of a small tennis court. This surface is continually exposed to
an incredible vast array of food particles, potential antigens,
bacteria, and yeast that can dramatically alter the defense mechanisms
of the gut mucosa, producing inflammatory responses associated with
atopic eczema and other skin disorders. This may explain why gastrointestinal
symptoms are more common among patients with eczema than in healthy
controls.1
Ionescu
and his colleagues have studied fecal and duodenal flora in patients
with atopic eczema and found evidence of gastrointestinal (GI) dysbiosis
and subtle malabsorption in the majority.2,3 Chronic
pancreatis is another GI-related
dysfunction associated with this
skin disorder.4 Immune
sensitivity to colonization by the
gastrointestinal yeast Candida albicans
or the bacteria Helicobacter pylori
are also closely linked with clinical
manifestation of atopic dermatitis.5-7 In
fact, an exciting new study suggests
that probiotics--the reinoculation
of the colon with "helpful" bacteria
such as lactobacillus--may improve
GI barrier mechanisms in patients
with atopic dermatitis and thus reduce
its inflammatory symptoms.8
Other
skin conditions are also closely tied to GI dysbiosis. A study by
researchers in the Department of Dermatology at the Royal Infirmary
in Edinburgh concluded that "a combination of objective tests
of small intestinal architecture and function will detect abnormalities
in most dermatitis herpetiformis patients," even in some who
exhibit normal intestinal biopsy results."9
Great
Smokies' Comprehensive
Digestive Stool Analysis (CDSA) provides a comprehensive assessment
of the GI microbial flora and digestive function, including yeast
status, bacterial growth, and pH balance, providing important information
in many inflammatory skin conditions. Specific individual assessments,
such as the Helicobacter pylori test, the Candida yeast culture
or Candida Antibodies test are also available.
References:
1 Caffarelli C, Cavagni G, Deriu FM, Zanotti P, Atherton DJ. Gastrointestinal
symptoms in atopic eczema. Arch Dis Child 1998;78(3):230-234.
2 Ionescu G, Kiehl R, Ona L and Schuler R. Abnormal fecal microflora
and malabsorption phenomena in atopic eczema paitents. Journal of
Advancement in Medicine 1990;3:71-89.
3 Ionescu G, Kiehl R, Wichmann-Kunz F, and Leimbeck R. Immunological
significance of fungal and bacterial infections in atopic eczema.
Journal of Advancement of Medicine 1990;3:47-58.
4 Kaliuzhnaia LD, Gaiduchenko LV, Gorbasenko NV, Gubko L. Hepatobiliary
system function in atopic dermatitiis patients. [Russian] Vestn
Dermatol Venerol 1990;9:44-48.
5 Samuilova TL, Mokronosova MA, Krasnoproshin LI, Sdokhova SA, Sergeeva
AS. Candida albicans sensitization in patients with atopic bronchial
asthma and atopic dermatitis [Russian]. Ter Arkh 1997;69(11):41-44.
6 Savolainen J, Lammintausta K, Kalimo K, Viander M. Candida albicans
and atopic dermatitis. Clin Exp Allergy 1993;23(4):332-339.
7 Wilson WH. Eczema responsive to treatment for Helicobacter pylori.
[Letter]. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 1995;75(3):290.
8 Majamaa H, Isolauri E. Probiotics: a novel approach in the management
of food allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1997;99(2):179-185.
9 Gawkrodger DG, McDonald C, O'Mahony S, Ferguson A. Small intestinal
function and dietary status in dermatitis herptiformis. Gut 1991;32(40:377-382.
Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed
and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification
and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing
this disorder.
For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit
our web site www.completehealthinstitute.com go to lab tests and
click on appropriate test for information.
Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice
for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is
so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach.
Remember that the body can heal itself if given the
proper nutrients.
The information herein is not intended as diagnosis,
treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition
please seek the advice of your medical doctor. |
