Acne Necrotica Miliaris and Varioliformis Flashcards
What is folliculitis and how is it characterised?
Folliculitis is an inflammatory disorder of the hair follicles, characterised by small, itchy pustules often near the frontal hairline.
What are the two forms of Acne Necrotica, and how do they differ?
The two forms are Acne Necrotica Miliaris (superficial form with small vesico-papules that leave no scarring) and Acne Necrotica Varioliformis (severe form with painful pustules that leave varioliform scarring).
Which micro-organisms are commonly associated with folliculitis?
Common micro-organisms include Cutibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus Aureus, Demodex folliculorum mites, and Malassezia yeast species.
Why is the Gram stain test significant for treating bacterial skin disorders?
The Gram stain test classifies bacteria into gram-positive or gram-negative, which helps determine the most effective antibiotic treatment, as gram-positive bacteria are generally more responsive to certain antibiotics.
What characterises Acne Necrotica Miliaris, and what is its impact on the hair follicle?
Acne Necrotica Miliaris is characterised by small, itchy vesico-papules on the head, face, scalp, and trunk, leading to necrosis of the involved hair follicle without leaving scars.
Describe the presentation and consequences of Acne Necrotica Varioliformis.
It presents with painful, umbilicated pustules that lead to follicular necrosis and leave behind varioliform (smallpox-like) scarring, potentially causing cosmetic disfigurement.
What conditions can mimic Acne Necrotica, making accurate diagnosis crucial?
Conditions include bacterial folliculitis, Molluscum contagiosum, neurotic excoriation, and eczema herpeticum.
What are some treatment options for Acne Necrotica?
Treatment options include oral tetracycline, anti-staphylococcal agents, antibacterial shampoos, Doxepin for anxiety, Isotretinoin, topical antibiotics and antibacterial washes.
How does the chronic nature of Acne Necrotica Varioliformis assist in its diagnosis?
The chronicity is indicative as previously affected areas will show noticeable scarring, aiding in distinguishing it from other acute conditions.
Why is testing for the type of bacteria present important in treating Acne Necrotica?
Identifying the specific bacteria helps in selecting the most effective antibiotic treatment, as different bacteria respond to different antibiotics.
What is the difference between acne necrotica miliaris and varioliformis?
Acne Necrotica Miliaris is a superficial form of folliculitis presenting as small vesico-papules on the head, face, scalp, and trunk, often itchy and without leaving scars. Acne Necrotica Varioliformis is a more severe, cicatricial form, characterised by painful, umbilicated pustules that heal with varioliform scarring, potentially causing cosmetic disfigurement.
