Sebaceous-immunobiology in disease pathogenesis

Abstract

Sebaceous glands are not only producing lipids to contribute to the lipid barrier but are important in maintaining the homeostasis of the skin as well, which is greatly related to their immune competence. Our aim with this review is to present key studies on their possible involvement in inflammation and their crosstalk with various cell types of the immune system that altogether led to the introduction of “sebaceous-immunobiology” as a novel field in dermatology. With a focus on diseases considered to be related to sebaceous glands, such as acne, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, lichen planopilaris, eosinophilic pustular folliculitis, and hidradenitis suppurativa, we also aim to put forward that sebaceous glands are not only innocent bystanders but active contributors in disease development.