Staphylococcus aureus in Psoriasis

Sixty-one psoriatic patients were studied with regard to the quantities ofStaphylococcus aureuson involved and uninvolved skin. About 50% of the patients carriedS aureus, usually in low numbers.Staphylococcus aureusand resident cocci were more numerous on the lesions as compared to uninvolved skin. Occlusion with plastic film led to an explosive increase ofS aureusin carriers, accompanied by aggravation of inflammation. Heavily colonized lesions responded less well to treatment. Because of increased exfoliation, psoriasis is an important source of hospital cross infection.