Acne medicamentosa

Acne medicamentosa
Synonyms	Drug-induced acne
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Papules, pustules, comedones
Complications	N/A
Onset	N/A
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	Medications such as corticosteroids, lithium, antiepileptics, isoniazid, halogens
Risks	N/A
Diagnosis	Clinical diagnosis
Differential diagnosis	Acne vulgaris, folliculitis, rosacea
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Discontinuation of the causative medication, topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common in patients using certain medications
Deaths	N/A

Acne Medicamentosa is a type of acne that is caused or aggravated by medication. It is a common skin condition that can occur in individuals of all ages, but is most prevalent in adolescents and young adults.

Causes

Acne Medicamentosa is caused by certain medications that can lead to the development of acne. These medications can include corticosteroids, androgens, lithium, and some antiepileptic drugs. The exact mechanism by which these medications cause acne is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve changes in the skin's oil production and the proliferation of skin cells.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Acne Medicamentosa are similar to those of other types of acne. They can include:

• Red, inflamed bumps on the skin
• Whiteheads and blackheads
• Pustules and cysts
• Scarring of the skin

Treatment

Treatment for Acne Medicamentosa involves discontinuing the medication that is causing the acne, if possible. If discontinuation of the medication is not possible, other treatments may be used to manage the acne. These can include topical treatments, oral antibiotics, and isotretinoin.

Prevention

Prevention of Acne Medicamentosa involves avoiding medications that are known to cause acne, if possible. If these medications cannot be avoided, other measures can be taken to manage the acne, such as maintaining a good skincare routine and using non-comedogenic products.

See Also

• Acne Vulgaris
• Rosacea
• Seborrheic Dermatitis