Acne Vulgaris Flashcards
Symptoms of Acne
- whiteheads (closed)
- blackheads (open)
- spots (red papules)
- pustules (papules filled with puss)
(usually on face, neck, back, shoulders, centre of chest)
Acne Referral
- children under 12
- adults over 25 for first time
- appears anywhere but face
- OTC failure >8 weeks
- moderate to severe acne
What is Acne Rosacea
- butterfly pattern
- reddening of cheeks
- confined to face only
- refer instantly
What medication ADR can cause Acne
- Lithium
- Phenytoin
- Progestogens
What is mild acne
confined to face with mainly:
- blackheads
- whiteheads
- small number of inflammatory lesions.
what is moderate acne
many inflammatory
lesions not confined to the face.
Lesions can be painful and there is a possibility of scarring.
what is severe acne
also has nodules and cysts and is wide spread.
Scarring is highly likely.
(requires retinoids)
OTC treatment
Benzoyl Peroxide (Acnecide, Panoxyl)
anti-bacterial
anti-comedogenic
anti-inflammatory
Application of Benzoyl Peroxide
- was skin before applying with soap
- 8 weeks for improvement (continue for 4 to 6 months)
- Apply to whole area affected
- apply at night
Benzoyl Peroxide dose
- start with low strength
- 2.5% to 5%
- increase from once daily to twice
- then increase to 10%
Side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide
- bleaches on clothes
- photosensitivity (avoid sunlight)
- stinging
- dry
- burning
- peeling
What to do if patient cant take the side effects
- stop for 1-2 days, then start again
- reduce frequency or strength of application
OTC treatment: Nicotinamide
Freederm
- alternative to acnecide
- it is anti-inflammatory
- evidence for use is limited
Acne Advice
- no evidence to suggest certain foods cause acne
- use mild antibacterial soap (do not over clean)
- do not overscrub
- do not pop or squeeze spots
- avoid oily cosmetics
