Acne: A Review of Diagnosis and Treatment

Acne vulgaris (acne) is probably the most common dermatological complaint in the U.S. Acne has a range of presentations and manifestations, thus apparently comprising many disease states. Although acne is not an infectious disease, specimens of bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes, Propionibacterium granulosum, and Staphylococcus epidermidis can be obtained for culture from the eruptions of acne. Other common associations of acne include hormonal imbalances and follicular hyperkeratinization. Therapies for acne are varied. The most cost-effective treatment option is benzoyl peroxide; for comedonal acne, the most effective therapy consists of retinoids. Isotretinoin remains the most potent therapy. Other treatments include oral and topical antibiotics, topical sulfur agents, topical azelaic acid, and oral contraceptives.