Acne Flashcards
Describe the pathogenesis of acne
The blockage of the sebaceous gland by keratin and thick sebum
There is increased sebum production and viscosity (possibly due to androgen), and the subsequent accumulation of keratin leads to a bacterium infiltrate of the sebaceous gland which results in inflammation and scarring
What are the three diagnostic clinical features of acne?
Papules
Pustules
Comedones
What is the layman’s term for an open comedone?
Black head
What is the layman’s term for an closed comedone?
White head
How can acne present in darker skin types?
Same clinical features as in lighter skin types but with hyperpigmentation also
What is the typical distribution of acne?
Face Chest Back Shoulder Occasionally the legs and scalp
What are the subtypes of acne?
Papulopustular Nodulocystic Comedonal Steroid induced Acne fulminans Acne rosacea
What is the term for the very severe and progressive form of acne which may also present with fever and joint pains?
Acne fulminant
How can plugging in acne be treated?
Topical retinoid and topical benzoyl peroxide
How can bacteria be reduced in acne?
Topical antibiotics - erythromycin and clindamycin
Oral antibiotics - tetracyclines, erythromycin
What agent used in the treatment of acne can reduce bacterial resistance?
Benzoyl peroxide
In females, how can sebum production be reduced in acne?
Anti-androgen treatment with the oral contraceptive pill
Describe the mechanism of action of oral retinoid?
Concentrated form of vitamin A which reduces sebum, plugging and bacteria
What is the standard course of oral retinoid in acne?
1mg/kg for 16 weeks
What are the trivial side effects of oral retinoid in the treatment of acne?
Dry lips
Nose bleeds
Dry skin
Myalgia
