The Role of Inflammation in Acne Vulgaris

22 PRACTICAL DERMATOLOGY AuGusT 2013 I nflammation has long been recognized as important in the pathogenesis of acne; however, until recently it was considered a secondary event. Studies over the past decade have demonstrated a central role for inflammation in the development of acne lesions and have opened new opportunities for therapeutic intervention.1,2,3 Understanding the role of inflammation in the development of acne vulgaris is important for dermatologists, as it may impact our treatment choices and identify additional targets for new treatment modalities. This review will provide a brief overview of some of the scientific literature regarding inflammation in acne. It will also review some recent auto-inflammatory acne syndromes that support the role of inflammation in acne pathogenesis, as well as discuss treatments currently available and in development with anti-inflammatory properties.