Acne conglobata is a rare and severe type of acne that is associated with chromosomal abnormalities such as the XXY karyotype.
Though the main cause of acne conglobata is unknown, it can be induced by abusing anabolic androgenic steroids as is commonly done by some body builders.
Patients with acne conglobata develop large painful nodules and deep abscesses which contain foul smelling pus on the face, back and chest. These deep abscesses which are often interconnected, break down and form large ulcers or wounds. On healing, they leave large disfiguring scars.
Another striking feature of acne conglobata is that the black heads or comedones are usually in pairs or grouped together. These black heads can also be found in rather unusual places such as the buttocks as well as on the back.
The treatment of choice for acne conglobata is isotretinoin which is given at a dose of 0.5mg/kg body weight for 4 to 6 months.
The treatment of acne conglobata should also include assessment by a mental health practitioner since many patients with the large disfiguring scars develop depression and anxiety.
Though the main cause of acne conglobata is unknown, it can be induced by abusing anabolic androgenic steroids as is commonly done by some body builders.
Patients with acne conglobata develop large painful nodules and deep abscesses which contain foul smelling pus on the face, back and chest. These deep abscesses which are often interconnected, break down and form large ulcers or wounds. On healing, they leave large disfiguring scars.
Another striking feature of acne conglobata is that the black heads or comedones are usually in pairs or grouped together. These black heads can also be found in rather unusual places such as the buttocks as well as on the back.
The treatment of choice for acne conglobata is isotretinoin which is given at a dose of 0.5mg/kg body weight for 4 to 6 months.
The treatment of acne conglobata should also include assessment by a mental health practitioner since many patients with the large disfiguring scars develop depression and anxiety.
