Acne

Acne is a common skin condition affecting patients of all ages. While it is most frequently thought to be a disease that affects adolescents and young adults (up to 90%), it can affect up to 50% of those over 20 years and up to 30% of those over the age of 30.  While acne is considered a benign condition, it can have significant physical and psychosocial effects.

Cause:

Acne is caused by an interaction of multiple factors including oil production, bacteria and clogging of pores with dead skin cells resulting in inflammation. Hormones, genetics, stress, fungi and possibly diet can also play a role in acne development.

Clinical Features:

Acne most commonly affects the face, neck, chest or upper back. “Whiteheads” and “blackheads” are the most common presentation recognized, but deep cystic lesions can develop with surrounding redness/inflammation. These can be itchy and painful.

Complications:

Pigmentation changes, scarring and psychologic effects such as embarrassment and anxiety can occur because of acne. It is important to note that the risk of these complications is higher the longer patients go without adequate treatment.

Diagnosis:

Providers can diagnosis this condition by its clinical appearance and thorough history. If there is inadequate response to standard treatments, sometimes additional testing may be needed.

Differential Diagnosis:

The condition can sometimes resemble rosacea, perioral dermatitis, folliculitis, sebaceous hyperplasia, keratosis pilaris or hidradenitis suppurativa.

Treatment:

Treatment may include topical or oral antibiotics, specific facewashes, and topical medications to speed up cell turnover while simultaneously “cleaning out” pores.  Specific regimen recommendations are based on evaluation. It is important to note that acne can take weeks to months to clear with treatment, but generally very manageable.

Source: UpToDate

Written by Sydnee Eck, PA

Schedule Appointment