Uncommon Disfiguring Forms Of Acne
Physical and emotional scars are incurred by severe acne. Many individuals are overwhelmed by an occasional pimple while acne delivers a distressing blow to the self-perception and sense of confidence of an individual. The consistently blemished skin of acne may include whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, abscesses, papules and other inflammations painful to the skin. Acne can grow on any part of the body. Most individuals are primarily afflicted on the face; however, blemishing can occur in many other areas such as the neck, back, chest as well as many other areas.
Although the majority of individuals will suffer acne in their teenage years, many suffer into their middle years of life. Daily stress of modern living increases exposure to many environmental pollutants, so much so that even adults suffer from acne. Even though many individuals deal only with transient acne, many others will suffer far worse. Here you will find issues surrounding the most serious forms of acne.
1. Acne Conglobata or AC
AC is an uncommon form of acne that significantly produces disfigurement. Acne conglobata is the development of burrows in the skin with keloidal and atrophic facial scars, abscesses as well as papules. AC often develops as clusters of two or three blemishes. Pus filled cysts are often present as well as nodules, especially on the chest and back.
Males are more susceptible to acne conglobata. AC usually forms at a young age, somewhere between 18 and 30. Many believe it is caused by a mutation in the XXY karyotype chromosomes, although the cause is unknown. AC may present extensive scarring and consequently disfigurement. The effects of AC is often dramatic, as people who suffer with this disorder may be at great risk of enduring anxiety, depression and low self-esteem issues as well as feeling shame for their condition.
2. Acne Fulminans or AF
Acne fulminans may be referred to as acne maligna, although it was originally considered acne conglobata or AC.
AF characteristics include sudden onset of ulcerating acne, which may be come with fever and symptoms of polyarthritis. Normally, AF does not respond to antibacterial therapy and other forms of conventional acne treatments. However, debridement used in conjunction with steroid therapy, is most successful.
Acne fulminans is caused by a weakened immune system and increased levels of testosterone and certain anabolic steroids. Such high levels of hormones can encourage the production and excretion of sebum and acne-inducing bacteria known as propionibacterium acnes or P acnes. Some professionals claim that isotretinoin may also lead to an eruption of AF
Telling the difference in AC and AF, may be confusing, since their physical symptoms are similar. AF is characterized by the presence of more physical pain. Those who suffer from AF endure symptoms of facial and bone pain, fever and migraines. AC and AF will differ in their treatment. AC often benefits from conventional anti-acne oral and topical agents, while AF generally does not respond to such treatments. However, AF does respond more favorably with the use of steroid treatments.
3. Gram-Negative Folliculitis
Gram-negative folliculitis usually occurs after an extended use of antibiotic therapy and is an infection of gram-negative rods. Gram is a word describing a blue laboratory stain. It is often used to find microscopic organisms. Gram-negative folliculitis bacteria does not stain blue, therefore the term gram-negative. E. coli, serratia marcesoens, pseudomonas aeruginosa, and bacteria’s from the proteus and klebsiella species, are the most common forms of gram-negative folliculitis bacteria.
Most gram-negative folliculitis cases produce less papules and comedones than acne vulgaris. Treatment of gram-negative folliculitis is conventional antibiotic therapy as it helps clear up gram-negative folliculitis. Isotretinoin may also help clear up this type of acne.
Ken Black is a writer and owner of many health related websites. Visit Skin Care Reviews for information on the best acne products that will clear your skin and make you look like a million bucks.
Tags: acne, Acne Conglobata, Acne Fulminans, acne treatments