Severe Forms of Acne
There are mainly six severe forms of acne. They are (1) acne conglobata, (2) acne fulminans, (3) gram-negative folliculitis, (4) pyoderma faciale (also known rosasea fulminans), (5) SAPHA syndrome and (6) pyoderma gangrenosum acne.
The first two are discussed here:
(1) Acne conglobata: This is very uncommon but very severe form of acne. This is particularly seen in males and usually occurs in the trunk and upper limbs. Unlike common acne, facial lesions are less common in acne conglobata. This type of acne starts in early teens and increases in severity in second and third decade. This is characterized by multiple inflammatory papules and tender (painful) nodules. They frequently fuse together to form draining sinuses (sinus is a channel with opening outside). Large scaring and multiple blackheads are also seen. There may be malignant (cancerous) change in the scar. Rarely it is seen with folliculitis decalvans which is very rare and chronic progressive hair disease that produce scaring alopecia (baldness of head). There is extensive scaring. Familial cases of acne conglobata has been reported. It may persist up to the age of 40-50 years.
Categories: Acne Tags: Acne conglobata, Acne Fulminans, Folliculitis decalvans, Oral isotretinoin
