Publication:

A study on the dermatology life quality index in patients with acne vulgaris

Background Acne vulgaris is a common, chronic disorder, involving inflammation of the pilosebaceous units that can be varied in presentation and difficult to treat. Most adolescents experience some acne; however, it may linger into adulthood. This study was done to evaluate the dermatology life quality index in patients with acne vulgaris.

Methods A cross sectional study was done with pretested Dermatology life quality index (DLQI) questionnaire on 100 acne patients 15 years and above, in a tertiary care hospital. Interpretation of score and impact on quality of life (QoL) was done and graded as no effect, small effect, moderate effect, and very large effect.

Results In our study, females outnumbered males (M: F ratio=1: 1.22). The age group most affected was within 15 and 20 years of age. The mean DLQI score was 5.59±4.07. Most of them had a ‘small impact’ on the QoL. QoL was worse in females. The most common grade of acne overall was grade 2 acne. Grade 3 acne was more common in men. Most of the patients (84%) experienced some degree of embarrassment or increased self-consciousness due to their acne.

Conclusions Our study showed significant impairment of QoL in acne patients. Treatment of acne should not be guided only by the clinical grade of acne, but take into consideration the psychosocial impact the condition has on the patient. Adequate counselling along with early treatment of acne vulgaris is essential in order to reduce the disease-related psychosocial sequelae and increase treatment efficacy.