MANAGEMENT OF ACNE-VULGARIS

Acne vulgaris can affect both adolescents and adults. The pathogenesis of acne is multifactorial and involves overproduction of sebum, an ab normal follicular keratinization process, proliferation of Propionibac terium acnes, and hormonal and immunologic factors. Clinical manifesta tions of acne range from noninflammatory comedones to inflammatory pap ules, pustules and cysts. Current therapy allows the physician to sele ct a variety of topical and/or systemic antibiotics, retinoids, and ho rmone agents aimed at specific pathogenic factors. Most treatment regi mens require several weeks of consistent use to be effective. Sound pa tient education, a strong therapeutic alliance and modification of lif estyle factors are powerful adjuncts to medical management.