ACNE vulgaris: The basis for treatment
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32385/rpmgf.v19i6.9989Keywords:
Acne, TreatmentAbstract
RELEVANCE: Delay in the search for medical treatment of acne can result in scarring, both cutaneous and psychosocial. Inflammatory lesions are painful and acne flares can cause decrease in self-esteem, loss of self-confidence social isolation and even depression. AIM: To review acne and its treatment in the perspective of family medicine. METHODS: A search including both Medline and the Index of Portuguese Medical Journals was performed. Textbooks and other periodic publications on the topic were also consulted. MeSH terms used for the Medline search were acne, treatment and human. REVIEW: Acne definition, epidemiology, physiopathology and classification of lesions are reviewed. Topical and systemic drugs used in acne treatment are discussed, as well as the possible treatment approaches according to type and seriousness of the lesions. CONCLUSIONS: A wide range of treatments are available, allowing the effective treatment of most forms of acne, with benefits both physical and psychological. Two principles are the mainstay of acne therapy: treatment should be initiated as soon as possible, in order to decrease scarring; after the conclusion of any treatment topical drugs should be continued for a period no less than six to 12 months. One should bear in mind that, along with the drugs available, a successful treatment depends in the patient education and compliance promotion.Downloads
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