Propionibacterium acnes

Definition

Propionibacterium acnes is an anaerobic, gram-positive bacterium that is a common inhabitant of the human skin and is associated with the development of acne. It plays a significant role in the normal microbiota of the skin and eyes, as well as in bacterial infections affecting these areas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Propionibacterium acnes is a common inhabitant of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles on the skin, particularly on the face, back, and chest.
2. It plays a role in the development of acne by converting sebum (oil) into free fatty acids, which can irritate the skin and contribute to inflammation.
3. Propionibacterium acnes is also associated with other skin infections, such as folliculitis and endophthalmitis (inflammation of the inner eye).
4. The bacterium is found in the normal microbiota of the respiratory tract, where it may contribute to the maintenance of a healthy microbial community.
5. Certain strains of Propionibacterium acnes have been linked to the development of antibiotic-resistant infections, making them a concern in the treatment of acne and other skin conditions.

Review Questions

• Describe the role of Propionibacterium acnes in the normal microbiota of the skin and eyes.
  • Propionibacterium acnes is a common member of the skin's normal microbiota, residing in the sebaceous glands and hair follicles. It plays a role in maintaining the balance of the skin's microbial community and can contribute to the production of sebum, which helps to keep the skin hydrated and protected. In the eyes, Propionibacterium acnes may also be present as part of the normal microbiota, though its specific functions in this location are less well-understood.
• Explain how Propionibacterium acnes can contribute to the development of bacterial infections of the skin and eyes.
  • Propionibacterium acnes is associated with the development of certain skin infections, such as acne, folliculitis, and endophthalmitis (inflammation of the inner eye). In the case of acne, the bacterium can convert sebum (oil) into irritating free fatty acids, leading to inflammation and the formation of pimples. In other skin and eye infections, Propionibacterium acnes may overgrow or become opportunistic, causing localized inflammation and tissue damage. Additionally, some strains of the bacterium have developed antibiotic resistance, making these infections more challenging to treat.
• Analyze the role of Propionibacterium acnes in the normal microbiota of the respiratory tract and its potential implications for health.
  • Propionibacterium acnes is also found as part of the normal microbiota of the respiratory tract, particularly in the upper airways. In this environment, the bacterium may contribute to the maintenance of a healthy microbial balance, potentially preventing the overgrowth of more pathogenic microorganisms. However, in some cases, Propionibacterium acnes may become opportunistic and cause respiratory infections, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying respiratory conditions. Understanding the delicate balance of the respiratory microbiome and the role of Propionibacterium acnes within it is an area of ongoing research, as it may have important implications for respiratory health and disease.

Related terms

Anaerobic:

Organisms that can survive and grow in the absence of oxygen.

Gram-positive:

Bacteria that retain the crystal violet dye during the Gram staining procedure, indicating a thick peptidoglycan cell wall.

Microbiota:

The community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that naturally inhabit a particular environment, such as the human body.