Acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris
Acne vulgaris in an 18-year-old male during puberty
Classification and external resources
Specialty	Dermatology
ICD-10	L70.0
ICD-9-CM	706.1
DiseasesDB	10765
MedlinePlus	000873
eMedicine	derm/2
Patient UK	Acne vulgaris
MeSH	D000152
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Acne vulgaris, also known as acne, is a long-term skin disease that occurs when hair follicles are clogged with dead skin cells and oil from the skin. Acne is characterized by areas of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and greasy skin, and may result in scarring. The resulting appearance can lead to anxiety, reduced self-esteem and, in extreme cases, depression or thoughts of suicide.

Genetics is thought to be the cause in 80% of cases. The role of diet and cigarette smoking is unclear and neither cleanliness nor sunlight appear to be involved. Acne primarily affects skin with a greater number of oil glands, including the face, upper part of the chest, and back. During puberty, in both sexes, acne is often brought on by an increase in hormones such as testosterone. Excessive growth of the bacterium Propionibacterium acnes, which is normally present on the skin, is often involved.

Many treatment options are available including lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures. Eating fewer simple carbohydrates like sugar may help.Treatments applied directly to the affected skin such as azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid are commonly used.Antibiotics and retinoids are available in both topical and by mouth formulations to treat acne. However, resistance to antibiotics may develop. Several types of birth control pills help against acne in women.Isotretinoin pills are usually reserved for severe acne due to greater potential side effects. Early and aggressive treatment is advocated by some to lessen the overall long-term impact to individuals.

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Wikipedia