Acne vulgaris

Question 1

Which bacterium causes acne?

Answer 1

Propionobacterium acnes (gram +ve, bacilli)

Question 2

Describe the appearance of mild acne.

Answer 2

Open and close comedones with or without sparse inflammatory lesions

Question 3

Describe the appearance of moderate acne.

Answer 3

Widespread non-inflammatory lesions, and numerous papules and pustules

Question 4

Describe the appearance of severe acne.

Answer 4

Extensive inflammatory lesions, which may include nodules, pitting, and scarring

Question 5

Describe the management of acne.

Answer 5

1. Topical monotherapy (benzoyl peroxide)
2. Topical combination therapy (abx/benzoyl peroxide/retinoid)
3. Oral abx
4. COCP (co-cyprindiol/Dianette)
5. Isotretinoin

Question 6

Which topical abx is used in the treatment of acne?

Answer 6

Clindamycin

Question 7

Which oral abx can be used in the treatment of acne?

Answer 7

• Tetracyclines: lymecycline, oxytetracycline, doxycycline

Question 8

Which oral abx should be used to treat acne in pregnant women?

Answer 8

Erythromycin

Question 9

How long should oral abx be used for when treating acne?

Answer 9

3 months

Question 10

How long should co-cyprindiol be used for when treating acne?

Answer 10

3 months

Question 11

What are the side effects of isotretinoin?

Answer 11

• Teratogenicity
• Dry skin and lips
• Photosensitivity of the skin to sunlight
• Depression, anxiety, aggression, and suicidal ideation
• SJS and TENS (rare)