Page 103 - Community pharmcy practice E-book 2025

02/11/2025, 00:29

Acne Vulgaris

Introduction

Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is common skin condition where the pores of your
skin clog
The medical term for acne is acne vulgaris
Acne in Greek refers to puberty due to its interlink with young age The
Latin word vulgaris means "common" or "affecting the masses"
Acne is considered a disease of teenagers. The onset of acne correlates with the onset
of puberty; however, acne also is common in preadolescents (ages 7–12 years)
Additionally, acne has been observed in children 4–7 years of age

Although not life-threatening, acne may result in permanent scarring and
long-lasting psycho-social effects, including low self-esteem, social anxiety, and
depression
It may have a negative impact on quality of life similar to that experienced by patients with
asthma or epilepsy
Acne requires long-term control. This must be stressed with the patient to encourage
adherence

Pathophysiology

Acne is an inflammatory skin disease, occurred in pilosebaceous unit (hair follicle and
sebaceous gland) located in the dermis
An increased production of androgen, usually coinciding with the onset of
puberty, causes abnormal epithelial desquamation and hyperkeratinisation, along with
an increase in sebum secretion by the sebaceous glands
The accumulation of sebum, epithelial cells, and keratin within the follicle
eventually obstructs the follicle, leading to the development of acne lesions

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