What is acne vulgaris?
Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit (hair follicle and sebaceous gland), commonly seen in adolescents.
What are the four main pathogenic factors in acne vulgaris?
Increased sebum production (due to androgens)
Follicular hyperkeratinization (blockage of follicles)
Colonization by Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes)
Inflammation of the follicle wall.
Which age group is most commonly affected by acne vulgaris?
Adolescents and young adults, typically between 12 and 25 years.
What are the clinical features of acne vulgaris?
Comedones (open = blackheads; closed = whiteheads)
Papules and pustules
Nodules or cysts in severe cases
Commonly affects the face, chest, back, and shoulders.
What causes comedone formation in acne?
Hyperkeratinization and sebum retention block the pilosebaceous duct, forming comedones.
Which bacterium plays a major role in acne pathogenesis?
Cutibacterium acnes, which promotes inflammation by releasing enzymes and inflammatory mediators.
What are the main types of acne based on severity?
Mild: Comedonal acne
Moderate: Papulopustular acne
Severe: Nodulocystic or conglobate acne
What topical treatments are used for mild acne?
Topical retinoids (e.g., adapalene, tretinoin)
Benzoyl peroxide
Topical antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin, erythromycin)
What systemic treatments are used for moderate to severe acne?
Oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline)
Hormonal therapy in females (e.g., combined oral contraceptives, anti-androgens like cyproterone acetate)
Oral isotretinoin for severe or resistant acne.
What precautions are required when prescribing isotretinoin?
Teratogenicity: strict pregnancy prevention
Monitor liver function and lipids
Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding
What non-drug measures can help manage acne?
Gentle cleansing (avoid scrubbing)
Avoid picking or squeezing lesions
Use non-comedogenic skincare products
Manage stress and diet (limit high glycaemic foods).
What are potential complications of acne vulgaris?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Scarring (atrophic or keloid)
Psychological distress (low self-esteem, anxiety, depression)
Further History to Consider in acne vulgaris :
Why should harsh cleansers like Dettol soap be avoided in acne management?
Harsh soaps can disrupt the skin barrier, increase dryness, and cause irritation, which may worsen acne
What type of cleanser is recommended for patients with acne?
Use a gentle cleanser, such as aqueous cream, to wash the face without stripping the skin’s natural oils.
Why should patients avoid touching or picking acne lesions?
Picking or squeezing lesions can lead to inflammation, infection, and permanent scarring.
What type of moisturizers and sunscreens are suitable for acne-prone skin?
Use oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens to avoid clogging pores and worsening acne.
How can diet influence acne severity?
Dairy and high-glycaemic foods may trigger or worsen acne in some individuals; reducing these can help in management.
Why is stress management and good sleep hygiene important in acne?
Stress and poor sleep can increase hormonal fluctuations and inflammation, leading to acne flare-ups
What is the first-line treatment for mild inflammatory acne (papules and pustules)?
Combination of topical benzoyl peroxide in the morning and a topical retinoid at night.
What is the role of benzoyl peroxide in acne treatment?
Benzoyl peroxide (2.5–5%) reduces inflammation and kills C. acnes bacteria, preventing resistance to antibiotics.
Why are topical retinoids such as tretinoin used in acne?
Retinoids normalize follicular keratinization, preventing new comedone formation and improving skin turnover.
When are oral antibiotics indicated in acne treatment?
Used in moderate to severe inflammatory acne or when topical therapy fails; typically for 3–6 months (e.g., doxycycline).
What are key precautions when using oral antibiotics for acne?
Always combine with benzoyl peroxide to prevent bacterial resistance
Limit duration to 3–6 months
Avoid prolonged or repeated courses