Acne necrotica

Acne necrotica is a rare and severe form of acne characterized by the presence of necrotic (tissue death) lesions. It primarily affects the scalp and face, leading to scarring and hair loss in the affected areas. This condition is also known by other names, including Acne necrotica miliaris and Necrotising lymphocytic folliculitis. The exact cause of acne necrotica is not well understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of inflammation, hair follicle damage, and possibly bacterial infection.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The primary symptoms of acne necrotica include painful, necrotic lesions on the scalp and face. These lesions often start as small pustules or papules, which then evolve into larger, necrotic ulcers. The ulcers can lead to significant scarring and, in some cases, permanent hair loss. Diagnosis of acne necrotica typically involves a clinical examination by a dermatologist. In some cases, a biopsy of the lesion may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, such as folliculitis or other forms of acne.

Treatment

Treatment of acne necrotica aims to reduce inflammation, prevent the formation of new lesions, and minimize scarring. Options may include:

• Topical treatments, such as antibiotics or retinoids, to reduce inflammation and bacterial growth.
• Oral antibiotics to treat any underlying infection.
• Corticosteroids, either topical or oral, to reduce inflammation.
• In severe cases, isotretinoin, an oral medication, may be prescribed to reduce the production of sebum and prevent the formation of new lesions.

It is important for individuals with acne necrotica to follow their treatment plan closely and avoid picking or scratching the lesions, as this can worsen scarring.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for individuals with acne necrotica is generally good. However, the condition can be persistent and may require long-term management to prevent recurrence. Scarring and hair loss can be significant, and individuals may need to seek additional treatments, such as laser therapy or surgical interventions, to address these issues.

Epidemiology

Acne necrotica is a rare condition, and its exact prevalence is unknown. It can affect individuals of any age but is most commonly seen in adults. There is no known gender predilection.

See Also

• Acne
• Folliculitis
• Scarring