Microbiological diagnosis of the scalp and hair in 20-40 year olds - preliminary studies.

Microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms living in the human body. Skin, intestines and upper respiratory tract are particularly inhabited by microorganisms. The microbiota of the scalp and hair, though so far little understood, is particularly abundant in terms of microorganisms, which play an important role in maintaining the health of the scalp by inhibiting pathogens and promoting optimal skin condition. Dysbiosis of the scalp microbiota can be influenced by many factors, both exo and endogenous leading to the development of pathological conditions such as dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis. The aim of this preliminary study was the microbiological diagnosis of the scalp and hair in the group of individuals aged 20-40 years old. The samples for the research have been obtained from three different sites on the scalp of 6 individuals aged 20 to 40. The material for the study was collected using contact plates for total bacterial counts - Rodac Contact Test. The colonies grown on the microbiological media were characterised in terms of their size and shape. Subsequently, Gram staining was performed to assign the colonies of the bacteria to Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi characterisation of the scalp and hair was conducted using a trichological camera. Finally, on the basis of the study following conclusions have been drawn. There were observed differences in the appearance of microbial colonies between younger and older people and in the group of 40-year-old, there was a significantly less colony diversity monitored. In terms of bacteria, Gram-positive cocci got isolated most frequently. In addition, yeast as well as filamentous fungi occurred abundant in the middle of the head of the research participants.