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Acne is a chronic disease of the pilosebaceous follicle that affects mainly adolescents. It causes polymorph cutaneous lesions that may leave scars after regression. It is characterized by alternation of periods of exacerbation and stability. Spontaneous regression usually occurs after age 20, but some patients may continue suffering during adult life. Diagnosis is clinical and based on the patient's age at the time that the lesions first appear, and on its polymorphism and type of lesions and location. Some patients also need a hormonal and, sometimes, psychological evaluation. The right treatment for the right patient is key to treating acne safely.
OBJECTIVES
This continuing nursing educational (CNE) activity is designed for nurses and other health care providers who care for and educate patients with acne and their families. For those wishing to obtain CNE credit, an evaluation follows. After studying the information presented in this article, the nurse will be able to:
1. Discuss the pathophysiology and incidence of acne.
2. Identify current topical medications used to treat acne.
3. Describe current oral medications used to treat acne.
4. Define other therapies as well as treatment followup strategies for acne.
Acne is a chronic disease of the pilosebaceous follicle that causes polymorph cutaneous lesions, among them comedones, papules, cysts, pustules, and abscesses which, after regression, may leave scars (see Figures 1-5). It is characterized by periods of exacerbation alternated with periods of stability. The face, anterior trunk, and upper back are the most commonly affected areas due to a greater concentration of sebaceous glands in these areas. Acne is considered the most common dermatologic illness, with greatest prevalence in adolescents. It affects 80% of adolescents, but also may be observed in 54% of adult women and 40% of adult men. The most intense and severe clinical pictures usually occur in males (see Figure 6). While there is generally spontaneous regression after age 20 in the vast majority of boys, girls may continue to experience acne during adult life. It is more common in Caucasians than in Asians and Blacks (Cunliffe & Simpson, 1998; Odom, James, & Berger, 2000; Strauss & Thiboutot, 1999; Thur, 2001). Acne in adult females is different from that of adolescents and should be considered a unique problem (Ramos-e-Silva &...