Highlights & Basics
- Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disease that peaks in adolescence, but may affect any age group.
- Lesions consist of comedones (whiteheads and blackheads) and inflammatory papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts.
- Systemic symptoms may be present with acne fulminans, a rare variant of nodulocystic acne.
- Acne can have a negative psychological impact; prompt treatment is warranted.
- Mild acne is initially treated with topical combination therapy, which include two of: topical retinoids, topical antibiotics, and topical benzoyl peroxide. Moderate and severe acne is treated with oral antibiotics plus benzoyl peroxide, hormonal therapy, or oral isotretinoin.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
Citations
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Acne vulgaris: management. Dec 2023 [internet publication].[Full Text]
Reynolds RV, Yeung H, Cheng CE, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2024 May;90(5):1006.e1-30.[Abstract][Full Text]
Thiboutot DM, Dréno B, Abanmi A, et al. Practical management of acne for clinicians: an international consensus from the Global Alliance to Improve Outcomes in Acne. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2018 Feb;78(2 suppl 1):S1-23;e1.[Abstract]
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