Acne Flashcards
What are the exclusions for self care in acne?
Moderate acne defined as many erythematous papules and pustules and prominent scarring.
Severe acne defined as extensive pustules, erythematous papules, and multiple nodules in an inflamed background
Exacerbating factors such as comedogenic drugs, mechanical irritation, etc.
Possible rosacea
What are the 4 levels of diagnosis?
- almost clear, rare NIL with no more than one papule
- mild, some NIL but no more than a few papules/pustules
- moderate, many NIL, some inflammatory lesions, no more than one nodule
- severe, up to many NIL and inflammatory lesions, but no more than a few nodular lesions
What are the goals of treatment for acne
- alleviate symptoms
- reduce number/severity of lesion
- slow the progression
- limit duration and recurrence
- prevent scarring, hyperpigmentation, and psychosocial suffering
- improve pt self-assessment
- adherence to treatment
What are the nonpharm treatments for acne?
- avoid aggravating factors
- dietary avoidance of triggers
- wash face twice daily
- caution when shaving
- avoid oil-based cosmetics and wash makeup off at night
What are the OTC agents for acne?
salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and adapalene
What is the MOA of salicylic acid?
comedolytic, keratolytic, and antibacterial activity
How is salicylic acid applied?
1-3 times daily at concentrations of 0.5-2%
What are the adverse effects of salicylic acid?
skin irritation, peeling, scaling
When is salicylic acid contraindicated?
in diabetic patients with poor circulation
What is the MOA of benzoyl peroxide?
antibacterial effects against anaerobes by releasing free radical oxygen, bactericidal, suppresses sebum production, reduces free fatty acids
How do you use benzoyl peroxide?
apply sparingly once daily, and increase to 2-3 times daily
What is the OTC strength of benzoyl peroxide?
0.5-2%
What is the Rx strength of benzoyl peroxide?
2.5-3% and 5-10%
What are the adverse effects of benzoyl peroxide?
skin irritation, peeling, and scaling
How does benzoyl peroxide interact with dapsone?
It causes skin discoloration
How does benzoyl peroxide interact with isotretinoin?
it diminishes the effect of isotretinoin
What will benzoyl peroxide do to anything it comes in contact with?
It will bleach it
How long will a patient have to titrate up on benzoyl peroxide?
Until they have to leave the product on all night
Can bacteria develop a resistance to benzoyl peroxides?
No
What is the first line topical agent for acne?
adapalene
What are the topical antimicrobials?
Erythromycin and clindamycin
What is the MOA of erythromycin and clindamycin
binds to the 50s subunit of bacterial rRNA and inhibits protein synthesis
How often do you apply erythromycin and clindamycin?
1-2 times daily
What are the adverse effects of erythromycin and clindamycin?
dryness, burning, itching, scaliness, peeling of skin, and erythema
Can resistance to P. acnes occur with erythromycin and clindamycin? And which one is more likely?
Yes, more common with erythromycin
What are the topical retinoids?
tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene
What is the MOA of the topical retinoids?
binds to and activates retinoic acid receptors which activate specific gene transcription. They are comedolytic, anti-inflammatory, and normalize keratinocyte differentiation. They also help facilitate absorption of other agents
What are the adverse effects of topical retinoids?
erythema, irritation, dryness, skin peeling, and photosensitivity