Understanding the impact of spinal cord injury on the microbiota of healthy skin and pressure injuries

Scientific Reports, 2023 · DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39519-2 · Published: August 16, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Gastroenterology Dermatology

Simple Explanation

This study explores the relationship between skin and pressure injury (PI) microbiomes in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). It investigates how the bacterial composition differs between healthy skin and PI, and whether these differences correlate with clinical outcomes related to PI. Samples were taken from SCI patients undergoing reconstructive surgery for severe PIs. The DNA from these samples was analyzed to identify the types and amounts of bacteria present. The study found that the bacterial composition differed between skin and PI. The skin had less diversity, while the PI showed increased homogeneity of bacteria as the severity of the injury increased.

Study Duration

June 2020 and September 2022

Participants

27 males with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Skin had lower microbial diversity compared to pressure injuries (PI).
2
PI showed increased bacterial homogeneity as the severity grade progressed.
3
Compositional differences were identified between PI grades III and IV, with specific bacteria colonizing each grade.

Research Summary

The study investigates the microbiome composition of skin and pressure injuries (PI) in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). It aims to understand the differences in bacterial communities between healthy skin and PI, and how these differences relate to clinical outcomes. The findings reveal significant disparities in microbiome composition between skin and PI, with the skin showing lower diversity and the PI exhibiting increased bacterial homogeneity as the severity of the injury progresses. The research highlights potential targets for PI treatment by identifying specific bacteria associated with different PI grades and post-surgical complications.

Practical Implications

Targeted PI treatment

The identification of specific bacteria associated with different PI grades could lead to more targeted and effective treatments.

Personalized Wound Management

Personalized diagnosis and treatment, which may involve regular molecular testing, in addition to conventional microbiological cultures, are necessary.

Prevention and Clinical Observation

Prevention and clinical observation are critical components of PI management and play a key role in avoiding systemic infections.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size (n=27).
2
Lack of metagenomic analysis including fungi, viruses and multiresistant bacteria.
3
Causal relationships between CRP levels and the microbiome cannot be conclusively established.

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