Acne - Cystic Acne

One of the most severe forms of acne is nodular or cystic acne. The lesions associated with this form can be quite large and very painful, and can cause a tremendous amount of damage. If cystic acne is not treated and controlled, it can result in extensive scarring and pitting. It is beyond the ability of many acne medications (especially OTC medications) to treat. Cystic acne almost always requires the involvement of a dermatologist.

In cystic acne, the skins oil glands overproduce sebum (oil). The glands become engorged and swollen and incapable of pushing out the excess oil. The swollen glands can rupture underneath the skin, leading to the redness, inflammation and the eventual scarring that often results.

Cystic acne can also have a tremendous psychological and emotional effect on its sufferers as well, as they are more likely to isolate themselves to avoid attracting unwanted attention. And their fears are often warranted as some people shun those afflicted with this form of acne. They may lose out when it comes to advancement at work, and also in social situations where they avoid risking rejection because of their condition. This illness can significantly erode the quality of life and the self-esteem of those who suffer from it.

Though this form of acne is a challenge to live with and to treat, there are medications available to fight it. If other drugs fail to get a handle on it, isotretinoin, a retinoid that’s related to vitamin A is the drug most often prescribed. In fact, it’s only available by prescription. As it’s taken orally over a period of some weeks, it shrinks the oil glands so that mush less sebum is produced. It also helps unblock pores and restricts the production of new lesions. By unclogging the skin’s pores, isotretinoin (sold as Accutane) also helps to reduce the inflammation associated with cystic acne. It’s reported that up to 90% of patients have greatly diminished acne after a using it for the recommended period (up to 20 weeks). There may however be a need for repeat use if the acne returns, and it won’t eliminate any pre-existing scarring.

There are some significant side effects to consider if one is going to use isotretinoin. The most serious one is that it’s teratogenic and may cause severe birth defects. Pregnant women should never use it, nor should any woman become pregnant while taking isotretinoin. It’s important that women who are going to use this drug, and who plan to get pregnant discuss with their doctor when it’s safe to do so. Usually birth control is started one month before, and continued one month after this acne drug has been used.

Other side effects from using it include drying and inflammation of the mucous membranes, increased liver enzymes, a decrease in night vision, sun sensitivity, muscle soreness, elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and severe acne flare-ups. Some doctors will start with a low dose and increase it over a period of time while monitoring the patient to determine if there are adverse effects. It’s possible that side effects may disappear if the dosage is reduced.

Isotretinoin is a potent medicine that should only be acquired by prescription and taken while under monitored by a doctor. If any adverse effects appear it’s important that your doctor know right away so that the appropriate steps are taken.

While cystic acne is a potentially serious or even devastating medical problem, there are ways to attack and defeat it so that these sufferers can enjoy an improved quality of life.

Stephanie McIntyre and Wendell Bryant are Internet developers. Visit their site at acnesolutionsuniverse.com acnesolutionsuniverse.com

Tags: acne, cholesterol, dermatologist, quality of life

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Tags: acne, cholesterol, dermatologist, quality of life