Acne Vulgaris

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Chronic inflammatory skin conditions affecting mainly the face, back and chest

Question 2

Presentation (SCAM)

Answer 2

S - areas with pilosebaceous glands e.g. face, chest and back

C - may be erythematous and hypo/hyper pigmentation

A - scarring

M - comedones MUST be present (blackheads or whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules or cysts

Question 3

Causes of Acne Vulgaris

Answer 3

• increased keratinocyte proliferation, leading to formation of follicular plugs
• increased androgen causes increased sebum production
• proliferation of Cutibacterium Acnes bacteria within sebum.

Question 4

Risk factors

Answer 4

genetics
race
diet
hormonal factors

Question 5

What must be present for acne diagnosis

Answer 5

Comedones

Question 6

Differentials

Answer 6

Rosacea
perioral dermatitis
folliculitis
drug induced acne
keratosis pilaris

Question 7

Complications

Answer 7

Skin scarring
hypo/hyper pigmentation
psychosocial effects

Question 8

Management

Answer 8

Each treatment is given as a 12 week course.

Different combinations of:

-topical benzoyl peroxide
- topical antibiotics
- topical retinoids
- oral antibiotics
- oral tetracyclines