Changes in serum desnutrin levels in patients with acne vulgaris

Background

Androgens and insulin may contribute to increased sebum production in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris.

Objective

We investigated the association between serum desnutrin levels and acne vulgaris in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance.

Material and methods

25 patients presenting with acne vulgaris and 25 control subjects participated in this study. Fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, HDL, total cholesterol, insulin, C-peptide and thyroid function tests were measured. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was used to calculate insulin resistance. Desnutrin levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) according to the manufacturer’s protocol.

Results

Patients with acne vulgaris had a mean serum desnutrin level of (8.83 ± 1.13 μIU/mL), which was statistically significantly lower in the control group (10:58 ± 3.43 μIU/mL). In patients with acne vulgaris the serum glucose levels, insulin levels and HOMA-IR values (87.92 ± 7:46 mg/dL, 11.33 ± 5.93 μIU/mL, 2.49 ± 1.40, respectively) were significantly higher than the control group (77.36 ± 9.83 mg/dL, 5.82 ± 2.68 μIU/mL, 1.11 ± 0.51, respectively) (p = 0.01, p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Full cohort (patients and controls) evaluation revealed a negative correlation between the serum glucose and desnutrin levels (r = ?0.31, p<0.05).Apositive correlationwas found between insulin and desnutrin levels (r = 0.42, p<0.001). In patients with acne vulgaris, as a result of increased levels of serum glucose and insulin, the function of desnutrin was suppressed, perhaps contributing to insulin resistance.

     

Efficacy of metformin vs. doxycycline in treating acne vulgaris: An assessor-blinded,add-on,randomized, controlled clinical trial

Introduction

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) plays a role in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. Metformin can reduce IGF-1 levels and insulin resistance, so it may be useful in treating acne.

Objective

This study compared the efficacy of metformin and doxycycline in treating patients with acne vulgaris.

Methods

In this assessor-blind, add-on, randomized controlled clinical trial, we enrolled 40 patients with moderate acne vulgaris aged 15–40 and randomly divided them into two groups. For two months, the first group received doxycycline 100 mg capsules daily, and the second received metformin 500 mg tablets twice daily. The patients in both groups were adminitered to apply a fingertip (fourth finger) of 5% benzoyl peroxide gel (Pangel®) topically every night over the lesions, and to wash it off after 30 min. Patients were evaluated using the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) score, Investigator Global Assessment for Acne (IGA) score, Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI), Total Acne Lesion Count (TLC), and the number of inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions.

Results

By the end of the study, the GAGS, IGA, CADI, and TLC scores and the number of inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.001), with no significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

This trial indicates equal efficacy of doxycycline and metformin in reducing acne vulgaris severity, with doxycycline performing better in reducing lesions of the inflammatory type. Confirmatory or equivalence clinical trials should be performed to confirm our results.     

Serum zinc-alpha-2 glycoprotein and insulin levels and their correlation with metabolic syndrome in patients with rosacea

Background

Metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance may accompany rosacea. Zinc-alpha-2 glycoprotein (ZAG) is an adipokine involved in lipid, glucose, and insulin metabolism and might be associated with metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance.

Aims

To investigate the serum ZAG levels, presence of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and the correlation between ZAG levels, rosacea severity, and metabolic syndrome in patients with rosacea.

Patients/Methods

Seventy-nine patients with rosacea and 80 healthy volunteers were included. Anthropometric and demographic features, personal and family histories, clinical data, the subtype, severity, and duration of rosacea were recorded. Metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia were evaluated in both groups. Fasting blood sugar, lipid panel, C-reactive protein, sedimentation rate, insulin, and serum ZAG levels were investigated.

Results

Frequency of metabolic syndrome, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and C-reactive protein levels were significantly higher in the rosacea group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). Frequency of dyslipidemia and insulin resistance did not significantly differ between the groups (p = 0.175 and 0.694, respectively). The mean serum ZAG levels were lower in the rosacea group, but no significant difference was evident. In rosacea patients with metabolic syndrome, serum ZAG levels were significantly lower (p = 0.043); however, serum ZAG levels, insulin, and the homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance values were significantly higher (p = 0.168, 0.013 and 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and high C-reactive protein levels were associated with rosacea indicating chronic systemic inflammation. ZAG levels were associated with metabolic syndrome in patients with rosacea but not associated with rosacea subtype and disease severity.     

Ghrelin in the pilosebaceous unit: alteration of ghrelin in patients with acne vulgaris

Background

Ghrelin in the pilosebaceous tissues of human skin and ghrelin levels in patients with acne vulgaris have not yet been investigated.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to screen ghrelin immunoreactivity by immunohistochemistry in human pilosebaceous tissues of human skin and also to determine the quantities of ghrelin in the serum of the patients with acne vulgaris.

Methods

30 patients presenting with acne vulgaris and 30 control subjects participated in this study. Ghrelin levels were determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Human hair follicles and sebaceous glands were immunohistochemically examined.

Results

Immunohistochemistry results showed that there is a strong ghrelin immunoreactivity in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands in sections of human skin. The mean serum ghrelin levels (27.58 ± 15.44 pg/mL) in patients with acne vulgaris was significantly lower than those of controls (35.62±20.46 pg/mL).

Conclusions

Ghrelin produced in hair follicles and sebaceous glands of the skin might participate in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris and also acne vulgaris in humans might be associated with decreased serum ghrelin.

     

The correlation between ABO blood types and acne vulgaris severity

Background

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease with multifactorial etiology. Studies on the pathogenesis of acne are still important. Recently, various studies have been conducted on the significance of genetics in the pathogenesis of acne. Blood group is transferred genetically and could affect the development, progress, and severity of certain diseases.

Aim

In the current study, the correlation between the severity of acne vulgaris and ABO blood groups was investigated.

Materials and Methods

A total of 380 patients (263 mild and 117 severe acne vulgaris patients) and 1000 healthy individuals were included in the study. Severity of acne vulgaris patients and healthy controls was determined based on the blood group and Rh factor data obtained retrospectively from the patient files in the hospital automation system.

Results

In the study, the rate of females was significantly higher in the acne vulgaris group (X²:154.908; p:0.000). The mean age of the patient was significantly lower when compared to the controls (t:37.127; p:0.0001). The mean age of the patients with severe acne was significantly lower when compared to those with mild acne. When compared to the control group, the incidence of severe acne was higher in those A blood type when compared to the patients with mild acne, while the incidence of mild acne was higher in other blood groups when compared to the control (X²:17.756; p:0.007). No significant difference was determined between the Rh blood groups of the patients with mild, severe acne and the control group (X²:0.812; p:0.666).

Conclusion

The results revealed a significant correlation between acne severity and ABO blood groups. Future studies that would be conducted with larger samples in different centers could confirm the current study findings.     

Immunoglobulins in serum,whole saliva,and parotid saliva of male healthy and psoriatic individuals

Summary The present study was initiated by controversial findings in earlier reports dealing with immunoglobulin levels in serum and saliva of psoriatic patients. Daily fluctuation and salivary secretion rate were considered additionally. Starting at 8.00 h the immunoglobulins IgA, IgG, and IgM were measured by laser nephelometry in serum and parotid saliva of ten male patients (range of age: 22–60 years) suffering from psoriasis vulgaris. Venous blood and non-stimulated saliva samples were taken every 6 h for a period of 24 h. IgE was measured radioimmunologically under the same conditions. Results were compared to those of a control group of ten healthy males (range of age: 19–29 years). Additionally, the flow rate of parotid saliva (l/min) was determined and combining both measurements, the secretion rate for salivary immunoglobulins was calculated (g/min).For IgG and IgM in serum the difference between patients and controls did not reach statistical significance. However, the mean serum IgA-level was significantly higher in the patients (P0.01). Results at different test times were in the same range in patients and controls. IgE measurements in serum revealed patients with normal (<100 U/ml), border line (100 U/ml), and elevated (100 U/ml) levels.In parotid saliva, IgG could be determined only in 22% of all samples, IgE could not be detected. For IgM no significant difference between controls and patients was established. Considering the mean salivary IgA levels, no difference for both groups could be proved, but the 2.00 h value was significantly (P0.05) elevated in the patients. The flow rate of parotid saliva showed a similar pattern in patients and controls decreasing to a minimum at 2.00 h. By aid of new and more exact methods an elevation of only IgA in serum (and saliva at night) has been confirmed in male psoriatics compared to older references.Supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft grant Ho 195/14     

Therapeutic efficacy of metronidazole by needle-free jet injection combined with blue light therapy in Moderate-to-Severe facial acne vulgaris

Background

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological diseases. Some topical treatments for acne used in combination, such as blue light and topical antibiotics (such as metronidazole) by needle-free jet injection (NFJI), are becoming prevalent in clinical practice, but the efficacy remains uncertain.

Methods

In order to investigate the effect of blue light combined with metronidazole by NFJI in the treatment of acne, the 251 enrolled patients were randomly assigned into the blue light group, metronidazole (MNZ) group, and MNZ + blue light group, and then received 6-weeks' treatment. A variety of objective and subjective methods such as clinical pictures, skin barrier physiological parameters (including trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration, facail surface sebum, erythema and pigmentation), the Investigator Global Assessment score, acne lesion count assessment, Patients' Self-Assessment, and VAS score were used to evaluate the efficacy and side effects of the treatments.

Results

Compared to the baseline, the MNZ + blue light group showed significant improvement in acne lesion count reduction, TEWL, straum corneum hydration, facial surface sebum and erythema (p < 0.05). The MNZ + blue light group showed significant differences compared with the MNZ group and blue light group in terms of acne lesion count reduction and erythema (p < 0.05) Compared to the MNZ group, the MNZ + blue light group demonstrated significant improvement in TEWL and sebum (p < 0.05). While compared to the blue light group, the MNZ + blue light group showed significant improvement in hydration (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference among the three groups in pigmentation (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The combination of MNZ by NFJI and blue light has a synergistic effect and can relieve acne skin lesion within 6 weeks in the treatment of moderate and moderate–to–severe facial acne vulgaris, meanwhile, this method has a good safety.     

Biochemical and hormonal abnormalities in adult female acne

Background

Prevalence of adult patients with acne is increasing and women comprise majority of the cases. There is lack of data on biochemical and hormonal abnormalities in adult female acne (AFA).

Aims

To evaluate biochemical and hormonal parameters in 60 patients of AFA.

Methods

A cross-sectional observational study conducted from November 2018 to March 2020 in Dermatology outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital in North India. Adult females (age > 25 years) with a clinical diagnosis of acne were included in the study.

Results

60 cases of AFA were included. The age ranged between 26–41 years with mean age at presentation being 29.45 years. 53.3% patients had persistent acne while 46.7% had late-onset acne. 50% patients had history of premenstrual flare-up of their acne. Raised FBG was found in 25% patients. 10% had raised serum insulin levels. HOMA-IR index was deranged in 55% patients. At least one lipid alteration was reported in 91.6% of patients. In hormonal parameters, raised TT was present in 6.7%, LH in 3.3%, FSH in 18.3%, prolactin in 3.3%, and TSH in 15%. No association was found between acne severity and biochemical and hormonal parameters.

Conclusions

Our study highlighted the importance of measuring lipid profile in AFA and calculating HOMA-IR index for measuring insulin resistance rather than simply measuring serum insulin levels. In our study, additional parameter deranged in significant number of patients was FBG. Hence, we recommend routine screening of lipid profile, FBG and calculation of HOMA-IR index in AFA.     

Effects of Adapalene-Benzoyl Peroxide Combination Gel in Treatment or Maintenance Therapy of Moderate or Severe Acne Vulgaris: A Meta-Analysis

Background

An antibiotic-free, fixed-dose combination gel with adapalene (A) 0.1% and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) 2.5% has been developed for treatment of acne vulgaris.

Objective

To compare the clinical outcomes of A-BPO combination gel with vehicle gel for treatment or maintenance therapy of patients with acne vulgaris.

Methods

An electronic search of the database PubMed (1966 to September 2012), Embase (1984 to September 2012), and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (CENTRAL; 3rd Quarter, 2012) was undertaken to identify relevant studies. Main clinical outcomes were success rate, treatment-related adverse events (AEs), AEs leading to discontinuation, satisfaction with the effectiveness, and overall satisfaction.

Results

Six studies were finally included in this meta-analysis. The A-BPO group yielded better clinical outcomes regarding the success rate (p<0.00001), satisfaction with the effectiveness of treatment (p=0.005), and overall satisfaction (p=0.005) compared to the vehicle group. The incidence of treatment-related AEs in the A-BPO group was comparable with that of vehicle group (p=0.09), while the A-BPO group was associated with a slightly increase in the incidence of AEs leading to discontinuation when compared with the vehicle group (p=0.02).

Conclusion

A-BPO combination gel yields better clinical outcomes including success rate, satisfaction with the effectiveness, and overall satisfaction compared to vehicle gel, despite an increased incidence of AEs leading to discontinuation. The A-BPO combination agent most likely contributes to the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris rather than severe acne vulgaris, but it may be useful in maintenance therapy of patients with severe acne vulgaris.     

Efficacy and safety of innovative acne scar serum in Indian patients (ESTEEM India study)

Background

Scarring is a common and undesirable outcome of acne vulgaris. There are limited effective topical formulations for acne scar treatment. The investigational product, acne scar serum (HEXILAK® Acne Scar Serum) is latest topical formulation developed for treatment of acne scar with unique ingredients, Kollaren and Exo-T.

Objective

Evaluate safety and efficacy of latest acne scar serum on the reduction of acne scars in Indian population.

Materials and Methods

Subjects, diagnosed clinically with acne scars with or without hyperpigmentation, of either gender in the age group of 15 to 45 years were enrolled in the study. The investigational acne scar serum was applied twice daily for 3 months with monthly follow for outcome evaluation.

Results

Out of 72 subjects enrolled, 67 completed the study. Most of the subjects, 79.1% showed improvement in acne scar at Day 90. Significant reduction of mean total post-acne hyperpigmentation index (PAHI) was seen at all follow up visits compared with baseline. Significant improvement in mean acne scar depth, mean acne scar volume, and mean L value using 3D imaging were observed at all visits compared with baseline. All side effects reported were mild and overall, it was well tolerated by all subjects.

Conclusion

We found that there was a significant reduction in acne scar and post-acne pigmentation with new acne scar serum as a monotherapy, this needs further confirmation in larger randomized controlled studies. Therefore, topical acne scar serum with unique ingredients Kollaren and Exo-T can be a safe, effective, and new option in the armamentarium of acne scar management.     

Effects of mesotherapy introduction of compound glycyrrhizin injection on the treatment of moderate to severe acne

Background

Compound glycyrrhizin has achieved outstanding results in the treatment of various skin diseases. However, the use of mesotherapy to inject compound glycyrrhizin into the skin to treat acne is still understudied.

Aims

This paper aims to explore the effects of mesotherapy introduction of compound glycyrrhizin injection on the acne.

Materials & Methods

A total of 108 patients were included in this study and divided into the control group (n = 54) and the observation group (n = 54). The control group was treated with topical clindamycin gel, while the study group was treated with topical clindamycin gel + mesotherapy and compound glycyrrhizin injection. Skin transepidermal water loss (TEWL), cuticle water content, acne severity, adverse reactions, and inflammatory reactions were documented before and after treatment in the two groups.

Results

The usage of mesotherapy to inject compound glycyrrhizin into the skin of acne patients more effectively treat acne than traditional clindamycin gel. The mesotherapy compound glycyrrhizin can more effectively protect the skin barrier of patients and reduce the loss of skin moisture. Compared with the traditional clindamycin gel, the combination of mesotherapy and compound glycyrrhizin more effectively inhibit the inflammatory reaction in acne patients and reduce skin damage in acne patients.

Discussion/Conclusion

Mesoderm introduction of compound glycyrrhizin injection has better effects on the treatment of moderate to severe acne than clindamycin gel.     

Quality of life,self-esteem and psychosocial factors in adolescents with acne vulgaris

Background

Dermatological diseases, among which acne vulgaris, have psychological impact on the affected generating feelings of guilt, shame and social isolation.

Objectives

To compare quality of life, self-esteem and other psychosocial variables amongst adolescents with and without acne vulgaris, and between levels of severity.

Methods

Cross-sectional observational study in a sample of 355 high school students from the city of João Pessoa. Data collection was performed with questionnaires and clinical-dermatological evaluation. The primary variables were the incidence of AV; quality of life, set by the Children''s Dermatology Quality of Life Index and Dermatology Quality of Life Index; and self-esteem, measured by the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. For calculation of statistical tests, we used the SPSS 20.0 software, considering p=0.05.

Results

The sample, with an average age of 16, showed 89.3% prevalence of acne vulgaris. The most prevalent psychosocial issue was "afraid that acne will never cease", present in 58% of affected youth. The median score of Quality of Life in Children''s Dermatology Index was different amongst students with and without acne vulgaris (p=0.003), as well as the Quality of Life in Dermatology (p=0.038) scores, so that students with acne vulgaris have worse QoL. There was a correlation between the severity of acne vulgaris and worse quality of life. Self-esteem was not significantly associated with the occurrence or severity of acne vulgaris.

Conclusions

acne vulgaris assumes significance in view of its high prevalence and the effect on quality of life of adolescents, more severe at the more pronounced stages of disease (p<0.001). The psychosocial impact of acne vulgaris should be valued in the management of patients with this condition.     

Effects of isotretinoin on glucose metabolism in patients with acne: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Previous studies reporting the influence of isotretinoin treatment on glucose metabolism have produced conflicting results. We therefore aimed to examine the effects of isotretinoin treatment on changes in insulin resistance and serum levels of adiponectin in patients with acne. A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the literature published from the inception of isotretinoin to March 31, 2019 were conducted. In the absence of controlled trials, open‐label studies on acne patients receiving isotretinoin treatment were included. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. The outcomes included changes in the homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) values and serum levels of adiponectin after isotretinoin treatment. Pooled analysis showed that HOMA‐IR values did not change significantly after isotretinoin treatment (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.183; 95 % confidence interval [CI] = ?0.004–0.371; I² = 38.3), whereas the level of adiponectin significantly increased (SMD = 0.512; 95 % CI = 0.327–0.698; I² = 10.7). Our study concluded that isotretinoin treatment for patients with acne resulted in an increased serum level of adiponectin but did not have a substantial impact on the status of insulin resistance.     

Expression of human neutrophil proteins in acne vulgaris

Background In acne vulgaris patients, the presence of a dysregulation of the production of innate and specific antimicrobial peptides has been postulated. Objective This study aims to determine whether human neutrophil proteins (HNP) 1–3 are expressed in acne patients. Materials and methods HNP 1–3 expression was investigated in 35 acne patients treated with isotretinoin and in 25 healthy subjects. At the beginning of the study, two skin biopsies were taken from acne patients; one biopsy was taken from an established pustule and one from uninvolved skin, and the biopsies were repeated after treatment. Only one biopsy was obtained from controls. Results The statistical analysis showed that pustular lesions of acne patients had significantly higher levels of perivascular and interstitial HNP 1–3 expression when compared with the biopsy of uninvolved skin of these patients (P = 0.003, P = 0.001, respectively) and with that of healthy controls (P = 0.007, P = 0.014, respectively). Isotretinoin treatment achieved a decrease in the perivascular and interstitial HNP 1–3 expression of pustular lesions (P = 0.01, P = 0.001, respectively). Conclusion Our current study demonstrates the novel observation that a recently identified antimicrobial peptide, HNP 1–3, is expressed in neutrophils of acne inflammation but not in uninvolved skin of these patients. These results suggest that HNP 1–3 may contribute to the development of inflammatory lesions of acne.     

Acne and smoking: is there a relationship?

Background

There are contradictory reports on the relationship between acne vulgaris and cigarette smoking. The objective of this study was to examine the relation between acne and cigarette smoking in a case-control study.

Methods

A questionnaire on smoking habits was offered to 350 patients with acne vulgaris and 350 patients suffering from skin diseases other than acne, aged 15 – 40 years, attending in a skin clinic in Tehran, Iran. The patients completed the questionnaires anonymously in the waiting room.

Results

Two hundred and ninety-three patients with acne (response rate 83.7 %) and 301 patients with other skin diseases (response rate 86.0 %) completed the questionnaires. Twelve acne patients (4.1 %) and 27 control patients (9.0 %) were current smokers (odds ratio = 0.43, 95% confidence limits 0.22 – 0.87, p < 0.05). But after adjustment for sex, this difference was not significant (odds ratio: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.30–1.26, p > 0.05, Mantel-Haenszel test).

Conclusion

An association between acne and cigarette smoking was not found in this study.     

OXIDANT/ANTIOXIDANT STATUS IN OBESE ADOLESCENT FEMALES WITH ACNE VULGARIS

Background and Objectives:

Acne vulgaris is a distressing skin condition, which can carry with it significant psychological disability. Oxidant/antioxidant imbalance leads to increased production of free radicals, that cause many diseases. Some nutrients, along with systemic oxidative stress, have been implicated in acne vulgaris. The goal of the present study was to assess oxidant and antioxidant status in correlation with the incidence of acne vulgaris in adolescent obese females.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 60 adolescent females (age 16-22 years) were divided into four groups (15 each) as follows: The first included obese females with acne; the second included obese females without acne; the third included non obese with acne and the fourth included non obese without acne. Fasting serum Malondialdehyde (MDA), β-carotene, and Vitamins A, E, and C were measured. In addition, platelet monoamineoxidase (MAO), and erythrocyte catechol-o-methyltransferase (COMT) activities were determined.

Results:

It was found that serum MDA was statistically significantly decreased in obese and non obese subjects with acne, as compared to those without acne (P<0.05, P<0.001) respectively. In contrast, the levels of β-carotene, vitamins A, E and C and the activity of MAO were significantly decreased in the obese and non obese with acne, as against the obese and non obese without acne.

Interpretation:

In obese subjects, increased fat content facilitates free radical production and lipid peroxidation, as indicated by increased MDA level, which is scavenged by the antioxidant vitamins. The decreased activity of MAO may be inhibited by free radicals and this causes psychological depression in adolescents. However there were non significant changes in the activity of COMT among the studied groups.

Conclusion:

The nutritional factors and a weakened antioxidant defense system may interplay, to increase the risk of psychological sequelae in acne vulgaris.     

Evaluation of 25‐hydroxy vitamin D levels and disease severity in patients with acne vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a multifactorial skin disorder. Many etiological factors are speculated to contribute to the pathogenesis of acne, one of these is vitamin D deficiency. Previous studies reported contradictory results about serum 25 hydroxy vitamin D (25‐OH vitamin D) levels, its association with acne, some claimed that acne lesion might improve with vitamin D supplementation. We aimed to assess serum 25‐OH vitamin D levels in acne patients, identify their relation with disease severity in a larger study group. The study included 134 acne patients, 129 controls. Acne disease severity was identified with Global Acne Grading Scale (GAGS) scores. Serum 25‐OH vitamin D levels were measured in all groups. Serum 25‐OH vitamin D levels were significantly lower in acne patients than in controls (P < .001). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was significantly higher in acne group than in control group (77.6% vs 63.9%; P = .041). There was a negative‐strong statistically significant correlation detected between serum 25‐OH vitamin D levels and GAGS scores in patient group (P < .001; r = −.910). According to these results, we claim that evaluating serum 25‐OH vitamin D levels in acne patients, vitamin D supplementation as a treatment option may be a consideration for further studies.     

Selective photothermolysis with a novel 1726 nm laser beam: A safe and effective solution for acne vulgaris

Background

Selective photothermolysis on sebaceous glands is an effective method for treating acne vulgaris (AV); however, safety, efficacy, and discomfort hinder its utilization in clinical settings.

Aims

The primary objective is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel 1726 nm laser with contact cooling to treat AV.

Methods

Seventeen patients aged 18 to 36 were enrolled and treated in this IRB-approved, single-center, open-label study. Patients received up to three facial laser sessions up to seven weeks apart. Follow-up visits happened ten days post-session and at the 4 and 12 weeks following the final session. The investigator assessed the severity of device-related adverse events (AEs). Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) and inflammatory lesion counts (ILC) were used as metrics to evaluate acne resolution and skin condition enhancement. Patients' perspectives on satisfaction and comfort using this technology were assessed using Subject Experience Questionnaires (SEQ).

Results

Safety assessment showed mild and transient AEs. All subjects tolerated anesthetics-free treatments well, with a mean treatment discomfort score of 4.9 ± 1.5. Compared to baseline, a statistically significant reduction in ILC (p = 0.003) of 52% to 56% is achieved four to twelve weeks following treatment. Long-term follow-ups showed progressive improvement 24 months post-treatment with a 97% reduction in ILC. SEQs revealed high subject satisfaction (71%) with psychosocial improvement three months post-treatment.

Conclusion

The novel 1726 nm laser appears safe and effective for treating mild-to-severe acne. Acne resolution is apparent within the first month and progresses beyond the study duration.     

Plasma dermcidin levels in acne patients,and the effect of isotretinoin treatment on dermcidin levels

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit. Dermcidin (DCD) is an antimicrobial peptide released from eccrine sweat glands and sebaceous glands. Studies investigating the role of DCD expression in acne development are scarce. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between DCD expression and acne vulgaris and the effect of oral isotretinoin treatment on DCD levels. Two groups (one patient group and one control group) were included in the study. The patient group consisted of 30 patients with acne vulgaris who were given oral isotretinoin treatment for 6 months until the cumulative dose was attained. Plasma DCD levels were investigated before and 6 months after treatment. The control group comprised 30 volunteer individuals without acne vulgaris or any inflammatory dermatosis. Of the patients, 24 (80%) had Grade 3, 3 (10%) had Grade 1, and 3 (10%) had Grade 4 acne vulgaris, as determined according to the Pillsbury scoring method. The DCD levels in the control group were significantly higher than those in pretreatment patients (39.53 ± 20.2 vs. 28.60 ± 20.12, p = .004). Additionally, pretreatment DCD levels were significantly increased after 6 months of isotretinoin treatment in the patient group (28.60 ± 20.12 vs. 35.07 ± 24.02, p = .012). The mean pretreatment global acne grading system score of 20.86 ± 4.43 was decreased to 5.17 ± 1.91 in patients after treatment (p < .001). This study indicated that DCD plays an important role in the pathogenesis of acne. It demonstrates anti‐inflammatory properties in acne vulgaris. Moreover, it was shown that isotretinoin treatment may improve acne vulgaris by increasing DCD levels.     

Mask-related adverse skin reactions in orientals during COVID-19: Prevalence,social-psychological impacts and risk factors for acne exacerbation

Background

COVID-19 pandemic has caused mask-related skin problems on health-care professions, yet very few studies have investigated the prevalence in oriental general population.

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of mask-related adverse skin reactions in Orientals, to explore psychological influence, to identify risk factors for mask-related acne exacerbation.

Methods

We performed a survey through social media. Participant demographics, skin condition before and after COVID-19, and the influence of adverse skin on social-psychological conditions were collected. We compared characteristics between individuals with or without acne exacerbation, and we performed a logistic regression to identify risk factors.

Results

Six hundred and six participants (62.3%) responded the survey and 23.3% complained their facial acnes become exacerbated since COVID-19. The social-psychological impact of acnes is more prevalent in women. Risk factors for mask-related acne exacerbation were occupation as health-care workers (OR = 1.861, p = 0.027), prolonged wearing of N95 masks (OR = 3.167, p = 0.001), and touching of acnes (OR = 2.65, p = 0.002). Sex, pre-existed acnes, and prolonged wearing time per day are also associated with acne exacerbation.

Conclusions

Mask-related adverse skin reactions are common in Orientals, and could lead to negative social-psychological effects.