Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsSymptomsCausesDiagnosisTreatmentPrognosis
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prognosis
Acne conglobatais a rare but severe form ofinflammatory acnethat causes pockets of pus under the skin that interconnect into tunneling wounds. This can lead to severe, permanent scarring. The face, shoulders, back, chest, buttocks, and thighs are most commonly affected.
Acne conglobata can be challenging to treat and may require a drug called isotretinoin or a course of oralantibiotics. Although the exact cause is unknown, genetics and hormonal imbalances are thought to play a role. Males are affected more than females.
This article looks at the symptoms and causes of acne conglobata. It also explains how the condition is diagnosed and treated, including the best ways to heal acne scars.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoAcne conglobata.Dr. Milton Reisch / Getty Images
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See Photo
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Symptoms of Acne Conglobata
Acne conglobata is a rare type ofnodulocystic acne. Nodulocystic acne is so-named because it causes the formation of pustular (pus-filled) nodules or cysts under the skin.(Nodules are deeper and firmer than cysts).
Nodulocystis acne typically causes isolated nodules. With acne conglobata, multiple nodules develop the eventually interconnect into pus-filled tunnels.
The nodules often start ascomedones(also known as whiteheads and blackheads). These non-inflammatory bumps can sometimes become infected, causing pus to accumulate and penetrate deeper layers of the skin.
Acne conglobata occurs because comedones develop in clusters. In other instances, acne conglobata can develop on skin that is heavily populated with oil-producingsebaceous glands.
Because of the tunneling beneath the skin, acne conglobata can lead to severe scarring. In chronic (persistent) cases, the scarring can be disfiguring.
Acne nodules are notoriously slow to heal and can continue to spread outward even as the scabs form on damaged skin.
Causes of Acne Scars and How to Prevent Them
Acne Conglobata Causes
As with other cases of acne, there is no definitive answer as to why acne conglobata occurs.
This includes:
Acne conglobata also occurs in families, suggesting a genetic link. Other types of acne also run in families, especiallysevere inflammatory forms.
Diagnosing Acne Conglobata
Acne conglobata is typically diagnosed with a physical exam and a review of your medical history (including family history and medications you take). Most cases can be diagnosed based on the symptoms alone.
Even so, your healthcare provider may take a sample of pus to determine which type of bacteria is involved. This can help them select the most effective antibiotic drug.
The healthcare provider may also order tests if they suspect you have an underlying condition like PCOS or hidradenitis suppurativa.
When to See a Healthcare ProviderAccording to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, you should see adermatologistif you have any form of severe acne.Indications include:Chronic or recurrent acne outbreaksAcne that fails to respond to over-the-counter medicationsAcne that cleared with prescription drugs but then reappeared after six monthsPimples in unusual places, such as the armpit, groin, thigh, or back of the upper armDeep, painful acne cysts or nodulesSevere acne scarringFeeling depressed, anxious, or reluctant to socialize because of your acne
When to See a Healthcare Provider
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, you should see adermatologistif you have any form of severe acne.Indications include:Chronic or recurrent acne outbreaksAcne that fails to respond to over-the-counter medicationsAcne that cleared with prescription drugs but then reappeared after six monthsPimples in unusual places, such as the armpit, groin, thigh, or back of the upper armDeep, painful acne cysts or nodulesSevere acne scarringFeeling depressed, anxious, or reluctant to socialize because of your acne
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, you should see adermatologistif you have any form of severe acne.
Indications include:
When to See a Dermatologist
Treating Acne Conglobata
Among the prescription drug options:
The treatment of acne conglobata can take several months to start working, but with persistence, positive results can be achieved.
If acne conglobata is still not getting any better, the next step may be to remove the infected nodules. This can be done with suctioning, surgery, orcryotherapy(cold therapy).
Scar Treatment
Because of the potentially disfiguring effects, the treatment needs to be more aggressive. Among the options:
How to Treat Acne Scars
Outlook for Acne Conglobata
Acne conglobata is a long-lasting condition, but with the appropriate treatment, it can be effectively managed over the long term.
Studies suggest that acne conglobata can be an ongoing concern for as long as three decades. After that, it often spontaneously clears on its own.
Summary
Acne conglobata is a severe form of acne in which deep pockets of pus, called pustular nodules, merge and interconnect beneath the skin. This can cause hardened, painful lumps and disfiguring scars. The cause of acne conglobata is unknown but testosterone and genetics are thought to play a part. Isotretinoin and oral antibiotics are commonly prescribed.
9 Sources
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