Publication:

A clinico-epidemiological and investigative study of post adolescent acne

Background Although acne is usually recognized as an adolescent skin disorder, the prevalence of adults with acne is increasing. The clinical and epidemiological data of adult acne were evaluated with a view to establishing possible contributing etiological factors and observing whether clinical features differ from adolescent acne.

Methods A total of 170 patients over the age of 25 years with acne were taken up for the study and a detailed history and clinical examination was done. Hormonal profile was done in all the patients. The data was statistically evaluated and inferences drawn.

Results Out of 170 patients included in the study 87.6% were women. The mean age of the patients was 33.5 years. Persistent acne was observed in 62.4%, while it was late onset in 37.6%. Most common predominant site of involvement was cheek (78%), followed by chin (62%), and mandibular area (33.2%). Family history of acne was present in 15.3%. Premenstrual flare was seen in 31.2% of female patients, obesity in 25.9%, hirsutism in 41.8% and menstrual abnormalities in 15.1%, but raised laboratory markers of hyperandrogenism were observed in only 4.02%.

Conclusions The study identified key contributing factors and patterns of post adolescent acne, providing valuable insights for tailored management strategies.