Acne is a cronic skin disorder in which there is inflammation of the sebaceous glands at the base of hair follicles in the skin.

TYPES OF ACNE

The most common type of acne is sometimes known as acne vulgaris, which almost always develops during puberty, although it can occour at any age. Chemical acne is caused by exposure of the skin to certain chemical oils. This results in the development of acne in areas where the chemical has come into contact with the skin. Certain prescribed drugs, such as corticosteroid drugs, can also cause acne.

CAUSES OF ACNE

Acne spots are caused by the obstruction of hair follicles by excess sebum (the oily substance that is secreted by the sebaceus glands). Bacteria multiply in the follicle, causing inflammation. Hormonal changes at puberty, including increased levels of androgen hormones (male sex hormones) in both males and females, stimulate the production of sebum. There may also be a genetic predisposition to acne.

SYMPTOMS OF ACNE

Acne develops in area in wich there is a high concentration of sebaceous glands, mainly the face, centre of the chest, upper back, shoulders, and around the neck. Milia (whiteheads), comedones (blackheads), nodules (firm swellings under the skin) and cysts (larger, fuifilled swellings) are the most common types of spot. Some, particularly cystic spots, leave scars after they heal, which may cause emotional distress.

TREATMENT AND OUTLOOK

There is no instant cure for acne, although washing the affected areas at least twice a day with a mild soap may help to keep it under control. Over-the-counter topical drug treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or azelaic acid are often effective. Prescribed topical antibiotic drugs, such as clindamycin, or retinoic acid (a derivate from vitamin A) may be used to treat moderate acne. An alternative treatment is with oral antibiotics, often tretacycline drugs. In very severe cases of acne, isotretinoin may be given under hospital supervision. In alla cases, exposure to ultraviolet light (either natural or artificial) may also be beneficial. However it is important not to burn the skin.

Ance improves slowly over time, and it often clears up by the end of the teenage years.

Source: A-Z Family Medical Encyclopedia – BMA

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