Acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a chronic skin condition caused by blockage or inflammation of the hair follicles and their associated sebaceous glands - together known as the pilosebaceous units. It typically affects areas with the highest density of sebaceous follicles; this includes the face, upper chest and back. Although all age groups can be affected, it is primarily a disorder of adolescence. It can present as non-inflammatory comedones (blackheads, whiteheads), inflammatory papules, pustules, nodules and cysts, or a mixture of lesions. This can result in symptoms of local tenderness and erythema. Acne is extremely common and thought to affect most people at some point in their lives. Twenty per cent progress to severe acne, which can lead to permanent scarring. The condition can be associated with significant psychosocial complications including low self-esteem, altered body image, social isolation and depression. The aims of treatment are to prevent long-term complications.