Acne vulgaris 1A Flashcards
What unit does acne affect
pilosebaceous unit
Acne can be clinically characterised by the following ….?
comedomes, papules, pustules, nodules and cyst
In a plugged follicle, what bacteria and type is stimulated due to it being filler with sebum?
propinobacterium acnes (an anaerobic bacteria)
Sebum production is increased by …?
androgens
Which conditions increases androgens and thus exacerbate acne?
PCOS and pregnancy
An open comedome is also called?
blackhead
A closed comedome is called?
whitehead
Inflammatory acne presents as?
papules, pustules, nodules and cyst
Pustules are colloquially referred to as..?
pimples
Sebaceous rich areas are?
Face, chest and back
Differential diagnosis for acne are?
acne rosacea, steroid acne
Classical presentation of steroid acne ?
monomorphic appearance
What can be prescribed for female patients following advice such as washing 2x a day and use of emollient if skin is dry?
use of anti androgens
Female patients requiring contraceptions should receive what type of contraception and avoid what?
oestrogen containing pill due to its anti-androgen effect and avoid norethistherone
An alternative anti-androgen is?
spirinolactone
What medication can be used in women of childbearing age which contains both oestrogen with anti-androgen cyproterone?
diannete aka co-cyprindiol
In terms of the stepwise management of acne what can be used for mild acne?
single topical agent e.g. benzoyl peroxide or azeleic acid
What is the mechanism of action of benzoyl peroxide
peeling off agent which is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and comedolytic
What is the next line of therapy following topical agent and an example?
combination therapy e.g. topical antibiotics (clindamycin or erythromycin) and topical agent benzoyl peroxide or topical agent + topical retinoids e.g. isotretoin
What is the 3rd step in medical management of acne and it’s indication?
Oral antibiotics for its anti inflammatory effect more than its antibacterial effect and can be used with topical agent but not topical antibiotics for moderate acne
Indications for oral isotretoin?
Severe acne (cyst and nodules) and if oral abx are ineffective
Mechanism of oral isotretoin and its side effects?
reduces sebum production and SE include dry skin and lips, teratogenic and depression
