Comedonal Lesions Research Articles

Acneiform lesions in a 57-year-old woman.

A 57-year-old woman on leflunomide with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and rheumatoid arthritis presented with multiple flesh-colored to hyperpigmented dome-shaped papules, scattered comedones, and underlying scarring on bilateral cheeks and chin. These dermatologic manifestations, laboratory evaluation, and punch biopsy led to a final diagnosis of acneiform or comedonal discoid lupus erythematosus (ACDLE). For patients with acneiform or comedonal lesions, ACDLE should be considered if the lesions do not improve with conventional treatment for acne vulgaris.

Whey protein and male acne: A double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

Acne vulgaris (AV) exacerbation after whey protein (WP) consumption remains inconclusive among experts. To investigate the association between WP consumption and acne severity in men with acne. A noninferiority trial was conducted in men with mild to moderate facial and/or truncal acne. After randomization, participants in an intervention group took daily WP 30 g with a non-WP nutritional supplement 18 g (WP group, n = 25), while the control group took a non-WP nutritional supplement 46 g (non-WP group, n = 24). At each follow-up appointment, investigators evaluated acne count (total acne lesions, comedonal lesions, and inflammatory lesions) and severity. Forty-nine participants had a mean age of 19.7 years (standard deviation [SD], 0.9) and 20.3 years (SD, 1.4) in the WP and non-WP groups, respectively. The mean differences in the facial and truncal total acne lesions for the WP and non-WP group were -5.99 (95% confidence interval [CI], -13.18 to 1.19, p = 0.09) and -2.18 (95% CI, -11.83 to 7.48, p = 0.65), respectively. For severity changes, only one (4.3%) participant in the non-WP group reported an increase in the Investigator Global Assessment scale of at least two levels. In this 6-month trial, men with acne who undertook WP supplementation showed a noninferior difference in the changes in total acne lesions and severity of facial and truncal acne compared with the non-WP group.

Resolving acne with optimized adapalene microspongeal gel, in vivo and clinical evaluations

In our pursuit of enhancing acne treatment while minimizing side effects, we developed tailored Adapalene microsponges (MS) optimized using a Box–Behnken design 33. The independent variables, Eudragit RS100 percentage in the polymer mixture, organic phase volume, and drug to polymer percentage, were explored. The optimized formulation exhibited remarkable characteristics, with a 98.3% ± 1.6 production yield, 97.3% ± 1.64 entrapment efficiency, and a particle size of 31.8 ± 1.1 µm. Notably, it achieved a 24 h cumulative drug release of 75.1% ± 1.4. To delve deeper into its efficacy, we evaluated the optimized microspongeal-gel in vitro, in vivo, and clinically. It demonstrated impressive retention in the pilosebaceous unit, a target for acne treatment. Comparative studies between our optimized Adapalene microspongeal gel and marketed Adapalene revealed superior performance. In vivo studies on Propionibacterium acnes-infected mice ears showed a remarkable 97% reduction in ear thickness, accompanied by a significant decrease in inflammatory signs and NF-κB levels, as confirmed by histopathological and histochemical examination. Moreover, in preliminary clinical evaluation, it demonstrated outstanding effectiveness in reducing comedonal lesions while causing fewer irritations. This not only indicates its potential for clinical application but also underscores its ability to enhance patient satisfaction, paving the way for future commercialization.

Exploring the Connection Between Facial Skin Cleansing Habits and Acne Vulgaris: A Comprehensive Review

Acne Vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the pilosebaceous follicles, characterized by multifactorial causative factors and clinical manifestations such as cysts, pustules, comedones, nodules, and papules. While AV is not life-threatening, it can significantly impact an individual's well-being by reducing self-esteem, increasing anxiety, and affecting their economic and social life. This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, synthesizing information from multiple reputable sources. The main objective of this review is to explore the implementation of treatments related to the relationship between skin cleansing habits and Acne Vulgaris. The connection between facial skin hygiene and the occurrence of Acne Vulgaris is of significant interest. One key aspect is the potential reduction in Acne Vulgaris when individuals maintain good facial skin hygiene practices. When facial skin is cleaned appropriately, it hinders the accumulation of excess sebum, one of the contributing factors to the development of Acne Vulgaris. It is essential to acknowledge the variability in research outcomes. While certain studies propose that excessive facial cleansing may worsen Acne Vulgaris due to potential skin irritation and glandular complications, others recommend a minimum of twice-daily facial cleansing with a gentle cleanser to maintain skin well-being. The optimal cleansing frequency may depend on individual skin conditions and the presence of comedonal lesions.

Comedonic lupus, a rare variant of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE): case series and literature review.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is an autoimmune disease with several clinical presentations. The chronic form predominantly presents as discoid rashes but may present with less common morphological findings that can sometimes make diagnosis difficult. Comedonic lupus is a rare and underdiagnosed variant, with unknown etiology and still poorly defined treatment. The report illustrates a series of five cases of patients diagnosed with comedonic lupus, and it reviews 18 cases previously published in the literature. The clinical presentation is of comedonal lesions, mostly located on the face, making a differential diagnosis with other benign conditions such as acne vulgaris, Favre-Racouchot syndrome, and syringoma, emphasizing the importance of clinical practice and histopathology for diagnostic confirmation. There is scarcity in the literature regarding the condition and therapeutic possibilities for these cases of comedonic lupus.

Widespread and eruptive comedonal lesions with alopecia

A 68-year-old White man presented with a 2-year history of asymptomatic, widespread comedones associated with patchy alopecia of the scalp and eyebrows and total alopecia of axillary and pubic hairs (Fig 1, A to C). Histopathology of a comedonal area demonstrated a dilated, follicular infundibulum with keratotic plugging and a perifollicular band-like CD4-predominant atypical T-lymphocytic infiltrate leading to the detachment and infiltration of the follicles (Fig 1, D and E). Subsequently, erythematous, erosive plaques started to develop on the trunk and limbs of the patient (Fig 1, F), the histopathology of which showed a more extensive, diffused, epidermotropic infiltrate containing CD4-predominant T lymphocytes with sparse medium- to large-sized lymphocytes (Fig 1, G).

Evaluation of Serum Interleukin 36 in Egyptian Acne Vulgaris Patients versus Controls

Abstract Background Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit, and it is one of the most common dermatological conditions worldwide. Some of the key mechanisms of pathogenesis are the disturbed sebaceous gland activity associated with excess sebum production and alterations in sebum fatty acid composition, dysregulation of the hormone microenvironment, interaction with neuropeptides, follicular hyperkeratinization, and induction of inflammation and dysfunction of the innate and adaptive immunity. Objectives We aimed to evaluate the serum IL36 levels in acne vulgaris patients in comparison with healthy controls and to correlate its level to different severities of acne vulgaris. Patients and Methods This is a case control study which included 30 acne vulgaris patients who were recruited from the Outpatient Dermatology Clinic at Ain Shams University Hospitals during the period between September 2018 and December 2018. Results The study revealed a highly significant increase in IL-36 serum levels which can differentiate cases form controls with a high degree of specificity of the test according to the ROC curve However, there was no association between IL-36 and the disease severity. Expression of high levels of IL-36 in all acne cases including mild cases suggests a probable role in early inflammatory stage of the disease. Furthermore, duration of the disease, body mass index, family history and sex were all insignificant factors on affecting IL-36 levels. Conclusion We found that IL-36 is involved in acne pathogenesis and its serum levels are elevated even in mild cases with comedonal lesions suggesting the possible involvement in the early events of acne vulgaris. Further studies are required to demonstrate more detailed explanation of IL-36 pathogenic role in acne.

Comedonal Lesions on the Trunk and Proximal Extremities: Challenge.

Comedonal Lesions on the Trunk and Proximal Extremities: Challenge.

650 usec 1064nm Nd:YAG laser treatment of acne: A double‐blind randomized control study

A variety of energy-based devices have been used to treat acne. However, all studies have been subjective and have not involved double-blind and randomized controlled studies. We undertook a randomized controlled study evaluating the use of a 650 usec 1064nm Nd:YAG laser compared with a sham in the treatment of acne. A total of 20 subjects with moderate-to-severe acne were randomized to receive either 650 usec 1064nm Nd:YAG laser or sham treatment. All subjects received 3 treatments, two weeks apart, plus an additional session undertaken 4weeks after the 3rd treatment. Subjects were evaluated for investigator global improvement, improvement in inflammatory lesions, improvement in comedonal lesions, total porphyrin score, and total sebum score. The laser-treated group showed an Investigator's Global Assessment Scale (IGA) improvement of 26% compared with 7% for the sham group (a 271% improvement over sham treatment group). The treatment group also showed a decrease in the number of inflammatory lesions of 42% compared with 26% in the sham group (a 62% improvement over sham). The laser-treated cohort also experienced a reduction in total number of comedones similar to that seen with inflammatory lesions and a decrease in total porphyrin score. There was also an 18% reduction in sebum production in the treated group, compared with 9% in the sham group (a 100% improvement). This is the first study that has compared laser treatment of acne compared with a sham treatment. A 650 usec 1064nm Nd:YAG laser can effectively treat acne.

Acne Vulgaris and Rosacea

Acne vulgaris is the most common disorder seen in general dermatology practice, accounting for approximately 10% of visits each year. Both sexes and all ethnicities are affected, usually in the late preteenage or early teenage years. Both inflammatory and comedonal lesions of acne vulgaris characteristically involve the face, but truncal involvement is also relatively common. Multiple clinical presentations may be observed, with severity often progressing over time during adolescence. Severe forms of acne vulgaris can be especially disfiguring and debilitating, and are more likely to lead to permanent scarring. Therapeutic options are chosen primarily on the basis of clinical severity, with adjustments in treatment made on the basis of response or disease progression. Rosacea begins in adulthood, usually in the third decade of life or later. The disorder predominantly affects the central face in fair-skinned people, mostly those of northern European ancestry, although individuals of any race may be affected. Rosacea may present as one or more of a variety of clinical phenotypes (subtypes); it is a chronic disorder characterized by periods of exacerbation and remission. Fortunately, rosacea is not associated with scarring, although a subset of patients may develop localized proliferations of sebaceous and fibrous tissue called a phyma. Like acne vulgaris, rosacea may also adversely impact quality of life. Figures in this chapter illustrate acne vulgaris and inflammatory papules. Tables detail laboratory evaluation for women with acne vulgaris and hyperandrogenism, surgical/physical modality options for specific acne lesions and acne scars, major topical therapies for acne vulgaris, and commonly prescribed systemic therapies for acne. This chapter contains 50 references.

Measuring acne using Coproporphyrin III, Protoporphyrin IX, and lesion-specific inflammation: an exploratory study

Propionibacterium acnes: (P. acnes) produce Porphyrins; however, fluorescence measurement of Porphyrins from Ultraviolet-A (UVA) images has failed to establish a correlation. Acne clinical research and imaging has ignored the spectral excitation-emission characteristics and the exact pattern of the Porphyrins synthesized by P. acnes. In this exploratory study, for the first time, the possible relationships of Coproporphyrin III (CpIII) and Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) fluorescence as well as acne lesion-specific inflammation measurements with clinical signs of acne are investigated. Furthermore, the sensitivity of these measurements in tracking and differentiating the known treatment effects of Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) 5%, and combination of Clindamycin + BPO are also evaluated. Comedonal and papulopustular lesions identified by investigators during a live assessment of 24 mild-to-severe acne subjects were compared with fluorescence and inflammation measurements obtained from analysis of VISIA®-CR images. CpIII fluorescence spots showed a strong correlation (r = 0.69–0.83), while PpIX fluorescence spots showed a weak correlation (r = 0.19–0.27) with the investigators’ comedonal lesion counts. A strong correlation was also observed between the investigators’ papulopustular lesion counts and acne lesion-specific inflammation (r = 0.76). Our results suggest that CpIII fluorescence and acne lesion-specific-inflammation measurement can provide objective indication of comedonal and papulopustular acne severity, respectively. Furthermore, these measurements may be more sensitive and specific in evaluating treatment effects and early signs of acne lesion progression compared to investigators’ lesion counts.

Dermatological Effects of Different Keratolytic Agents on Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin disease; it's one of the most common skin disorders and affects mainly adolescents and young adults. Keratolytic agents are widely used in treatment of acne from several years. In this study we aimed to evaluate and compare the cutaneous response of different keratolytic agents in management of acne vulgaris. Ninety patients were selected among those attending the outpatient dermatology clinic in ADDwadmi hospital during the period from October 2015 to February 2016. The selected patients had different forms of acne vulgaris, papulo-pustular, comedonal and post acne scar. Three types of keratolytic agents were used, glycolic acid 50%, salicylic acid 20% and jessner solution. In papulopustular lesions, the three agents were effective with non-significant difference between them; however, there was more excellent results with jessner solution (70 % of patients) then glycolic acid (50%) and lastly salicylic acid (40%). According to the clinical efficacy of used keratolytic agents in comedonal lesions , all lines were found to be effective and there was non-significant difference between the 3 studied groups, however there was more excellent results with salicylic acid (80%) then glycolic acid (60%) and lastly Jessner solution (50%). According to the clinical efficacy of all keratolytic agents in acne scar lesions, there was significant difference between the 3 studied groups. Both jessner and salicylic acid were non effective, however glycolic acid was moderately effective (30% showed excellent results and 40% showed good results). Minimal complications were noticed with all the agents used. More erythema was recorded with jessner solution. However there was significant difference between all keratolytic agents as regards the incidence of visible exfoliation where glycolic acid showed least visible exfoliation (only 40% of cases) followed by jessner solution (66.7%) and lastly salicylic acid (80%).

Trichloroacetic Acid Versus Salicylic Acid in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris in Dark-Skinned Patients.

Treatment options for acne include chemical peeling. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) has been used for treating acne. The ability of TCA to diminish corneocyte cohesion and keratinocyte plugging addresses this mode of treatment. Salicylic acid is an excellent keratolytic agent. It is believed to function through solubilization of intercellular cement, thereby reducing corneocyte adhesion. Comparing the therapeutic efficacy of TCA 25% peels with those of salicylic acid 30% in patients with acne vulgaris. Twenty patients, Fitzpatrick skin Types III to V with facial acne, were enrolled. Twenty-five percent of TCA was applied to the right half of the face and 30% salicylic acid to the left half at 2-week interval for 2 months. Total improvement was more frequent with salicylic acid peeling (95%) versus (85%) with TCA. Total comedones improvement was more frequent with TCA peeling (80%) versus (70%) with salicylic acid. Improvement of inflammatory lesions was more frequent among the side treated with salicylic acid (85%) versus (80%) with TCA peeling. However, the results did not reach the statistical significance level. Trichloroacetic acid is more superior in treating comedonal lesions, whereas salicylic is more superior in treating inflammatory lesions, without significant different between their results.

Acne Vulgaris in Preadolescent Children: Recommendations for Evaluation

Acne vulgaris in infants and children often triggers extensive laboratory evaluation out of concern about associated endocrinopathy. Clinical parameters to help guide evaluation of these children have not been defined. This was a retrospective chart review of 24 preadolescent patients with acne and a review of related medical literature. Two age-related subsets were identified: 12 patients who developed acne before the age of 15 months, 75% male, with comedonal and inflammatory lesions; and 12 patients who developed acne between the ages of 2 and 7 years, 75% female, with primarily comedonal lesions. Laboratory evaluation in 13 of the patients was unremarkable. Bone age was advanced in 1 of the 11 children imaged. Premature adrenarche was diagnosed in four patients; all four had additional clinical signs of puberty and growth parameters >90th percentile. None required additional treatment. Our cohort of preadolescent children presenting with acne included an equal number of patients in two distinct subsets: infantile and childhood-onset acne. Literature review identified a rare third subset presenting with acne, signs of advanced puberty, and associated endocrinopathy. There was no evidence of endocrinopathy in our patients with infantile acne. Two-thirds of our patients with childhood-onset acne had no additional clinical signs of puberty and no evidence of endocrinopathy. A focused history and physical examination is sufficient to evaluate the majority of infants and children with acne. Hand X-ray for bone age is a useful screening test. Further evaluation and endocrinology referral are warranted in preadolescents with acne and advanced bone age or additional clinical evidence of early puberty.

Analysis of distribution patterns ofPropionibacterium acnesphylotypes andPeptostreptococcusspecies from acne lesions

The precise roles of Propionibacterium acnes and other anaerobic bacteria in the pathogenesis of acne are still unclear. Recent studies have shown that P.acnes can be further classified into several phylotypes with distinct phenotypes and virulence. Their distribution patterns in acne lesions have rarely been demonstrated. To analyse distribution patterns of P.acnes phylotypes and Peptostreptococcus species on the skin surface of patients with acne and healthy controls, and in comedones, papules and pustules from patients. A total of 370 samples from 95 patients with acne and 65 samples from 65 healthy controls were investigated. Three P.acnes phylotypes and three Peptostreptococcus species were identified by polymerase chain reaction primarily using type-specific primers. There was no significant difference in the microflora of the skin surface samples between patients with acne and healthy controls. In acne lesions, distribution patterns between skin surface and comedonal lesions were similar, but they were significantly different from those of both papules and pustules. In the inflammatory acne lesions, the proportion of type IA P.acnes was increased, while those of type IB and II were decreased. The proportion of Peptostreptococcus species was also increased significantly in the inflammatory lesions. At the precision of this qualitative study, our results do not provide any evidence that different phylotypes in the surface microflora might be important in triggering acne. However, type IA P.acnes and Peptostreptococcus species might be more closely associated with inflammatory acne lesions.

Acne Vulgaris and Rosacea

Acne vulgaris is the most common disorder seen in general dermatology practice, accounting for approximately 10% of visits each year. Both sexes and all ethnicities are affected, usually in the late preteenage or early teenage years. Both inflammatory and comedonal lesions of acne vulgaris characteristically involve the face, but truncal involvement is also relatively common. Multiple clinical presentations may be observed, with severity often progressing over time during adolescence. Severe forms of acne vulgaris can be especially disfiguring and debilitating, and are more likely to lead to permanent scarring. Therapeutic options are chosen primarily on the basis of clinical severity, with adjustments in treatment made on the basis of response or disease progression. Rosacea begins in adulthood, usually in the third decade of life or later. The disorder predominantly affects the central face in fair-skinned people, mostly those of northern European ancestry, although individuals of any race may be affected. Rosacea may present as one or more of a variety of clinical phenotypes (subtypes); it is a chronic disorder characterized by periods of exacerbation and remission. Fortunately, rosacea is not associated with scarring, although a subset of patients may develop localized proliferations of sebaceous and fibrous tissue called a phyma. Like acne vulgaris, rosacea may also adversely impact quality of life. Figures in this chapter illustrate acne vulgaris and inflammatory papules. Tables detail laboratory evaluation for women with acne vulgaris and hyperandrogenism, surgical/physical modality options for specific acne lesions and acne scars, major topical therapies for acne vulgaris, and commonly prescribed systemic therapies for acne. This chapter contains 50 references.

Efficacy of an oral contraceptive containing EE 0.03 mg and CMA 2 mg (Belara®) in moderate acne resolution: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III trial

Background The study was conducted to assess the effects of the monophasic combined oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol (EE) 0.03 mg and chlormadinone acetate (CMA) 2 mg (EE/CMA) on papulopustular acne of the face, décolleté (low neck) and back; on moderate comedonal acne of the face; and on seborrhea, alopecia and hirsutism. Study Design Three hundred seventy-seven women were randomized (2:1) to receive EE/CMA ( n=251) or placebo ( n=126) for six medication cycles. Due to the placebo-controlled, double-blind design of the trial, condoms were supplied for contraception. The primary efficacy end point was defined as a reduction of at least 50% in the number of papules and/or pustules of the face from admission to Medication Cycle 6. Results In total, 64.1% (161/251) of subjects treated with EE/CMA responded compared with 43.7% (55/126) of those taking placebo (p=.0001). The median reduction in papules/pustules on the face at Cycle 6 compared with admission was 63.6% (EE/CMA) compared with 45.3% (placebo group). For comedonal lesions of the face, the reduction in lesion numbers was 54.8% (EE/CMA) compared with 32.4% (placebo). Moderate papulopustular acne of the décolleté decreased by 92.9% (EE/CMA) vs. 50% (placebo group) and of the back by 86.0% and 58.3%, respectively. For these skin conditions, the p values for the relative difference between groups vs. baseline were <.05 at Cycles 3 and 6, in favor of EE/CMA. As part of a self-assessment rating, at least 70.5% (EE/CMA) vs. 41.3% (placebo) reported an at least satisfactory improvement of their moderate acne. Even 39.8% of women taking EE/CMA reported an “excellent improvement” or “complete resolution” of moderate acne compared with 12.7% taking placebo. Conclusion In addition to its contraceptive efficacy described elsewhere, EE/CMA is an effective treatment for moderate papulopustular acne and other androgen-related skin disorders.

Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris in a HIV‐Positive Patient (Type 6 PRP)

A 45-year-old previously healthy man presented with minimally itchy spiny papular lesions of 3 years' duration and discharging nodular cystic lesions for the past 2 years. Initially, lesions appeared on his ears, followed by the gradual appearance of similar lesions over his face, back, and extremities. The lesions were not associated with photosensitivity. Over the years, the patient continued to have similar lesions without any significant response to various topical medications and oral antibiotics. There was no history of fever or any other systemic complaints and the patient denied any other significant medical problems in the past. Cutaneous examination revealed multiple, grouped, spiny papular lesions coalescing to form plaques at places over the ears, extremities, and trunk (Figure 1). Elongated, horny, follicular spires were noted on the top of the papular lesions. Multiple discharging nodular lesions with crusting were seen predominantly over the chest, abdomen, and back (Figure 2), and closed comedonal lesions were noted on the face and trunk. Multiple orange-brown scaly plaques were seen over the extensor aspect of the patient's thighs (Figure 1, inset). A few nails showed wedge-shaped thickening without subungual hyperkeratosis or other nail changes. Palms, soles, and oral mucosa were normal. Considering the atypical cutaneous findings, the clinical possibility of pityriasis rubra pilaris (human immunodeficiency virus [HIV]-associated type 6 PRP) was considered. Hematoxylin and eosin stain of skin biopsy specimens taken from the spiny papular and plaque lesions revealed marked hyperkeratosis with alternating orthokeratosis and parakeratosis with follicular keratotic plugging (Figure 3; Figure 3, inset). Irregular broad acanthosis was also detected in the epidermis. Dermis showed moderate perivascular lymphomononuclear inflammatory infiltrate. Thus, the skin biopsy was consistent with PRP. HIV serology by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with 3 different kits was found to be positive for HIV-1. The patient denied any risk factors associated with acquiring HIV infection, and laboratory values for complete blood cell count, routine serum biochemical profile, and lipid profile were normal. The patient was prescribed oral isotretinoin and asked to come for follow-up for CD4 T-cell count, but did not return.

Demonstration of Polarizable Crystals in Fresh Comedonal Extracts: Sebum Crystallizes

Previous studies using paraffin-embedded sections showed the presence of varying degrees of lipidic calculus (sebolith) formation in the pilosebaceous duct in acne comedonal lesions. The objective of this study was to examine the content of fresh acne comedonal extracts and pustules in polarizable crystalline material. Furthermore, to investigate if the amount of crystalline material correlates with the morphology, evolutionary stage, age and location of the comedone we performed polariscopic examination of 20 fresh acne comedonal extracts and 6 acne pustules. As controls, we used extracts from solar comedones, milia and epidermal inclusion cysts, follicular extracts from acne rosacea lesions, pustules of bacterial folliculitis and extracts from normal follicles from acne-prone individuals. The vast majority of acne comedones contained considerable amounts of polarizable crystalline material. Crystallization was more prominent in closed comedones, long-standing macrocomedones and conglobate comedones. Crystal formation was seen less commonly (p < 0.01) in solar comedones, milia and epidermal inclusion cysts. As shown in this study, crystallization of sebum is a common element of comedogenesis and may possibly contribute to comedo preservation.

Contemporary therapy for acne. What, when, and how to prescribe.

The use of topical tretinoin (Retin-A) for comedonal lesions, benzoyl peroxide for inflamed papules and pustules, and topical or oral antibiotics for more severe or widespread disease gives excellent results for the majority of patients with acne. At present, oral isotretinoin (13-cis-retinoic acid) (Accutane) should be reserved for patients with severe nodulocystic acne whose condition has not responded to an accepted therapeutic regimen. Good patient rapport and follow-up are essential in the management of this common disease.