Cystic acne

February 7, 2012 · Filed Under Acne 

Cystic acne is an alternative term for acne. It is also called acne vulgaris. The condition occurs when tiny holes on the surface of the skin, called pores, become blocked. Each pore is an entrance to a pathway known as a follicle. Each follicle contains a single hair and a gland which produces oil. The oil glands produce a substance which helps to prevent the skin surface from drying out. The substance also assists in removing dead skin cells (dermis).

When the oil glands are overactive and emit a surplus of oil, the pores may be come stopped, with an accumulation of debris, bacteria and dirt. The plug or blockage is known as a comedone. The surface of the blockage can be black (blackhead) or white (whitehead). If the comedone breaks, the interior debris, including bacteria and oil, may move into the nearby area and cause an additional reaction. The reaction normally appears as ”zits? or pimples. If the stoppage and inflammation is below the surface of your skin, the zits may expand to form solid, painful cysts.
Acne outbreaks commonly appear on the face, neck and shoulders, but may also be found on the trunk, arms, legs, and buttocks.
Teenage skin is especially susceptible to acne, but even infants can get the painful cysts. At least 75% of all teenagers have outbreaks of acne at some level of severity, probably because of the hormonal changes which occur during the adolescent years. Often the occurrence of acne is stronger in some family groups, and a flare up can occur when triggered by:
* Hormonal changes related to stress, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or birth control pills.
* Certain cosmetic and hair products, particularly those which have a greasy or oily base.
* Certain drugs (such as steroids, testosterone, estrogen, lithium, phenytoin for seizures, and isoniazid for tuberculosis).
* High humidity levels
* Constriction, or friction and resultant perspiration from back packs, head bands, or tight collars.
The long held belief that certain foods such as nuts or chocolate were villains in the causation of acne has now been shown to be untrue. Recent scientific studies of the effects of consuming large quantities of chocolate did not indicate a resultant growth in acne episodes.

Cystic acne is diagnosed by visual inspection. Unless an underlying disorder of the ovaries or adrenals is suspected, further tests are unnecessary. Further action may also be required if the cysts are especially large or if they are not healing naturally.

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