Acne Vulgaris|ba clinical study

Abstract

This is a retrospective clinical study carried out on a sample of 200 cases of acne vulgaris patients seen in the Dermatology clinic at King Fahad Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia, during the period from (9 October 1999 to 31 May 2000). The aim of the study was to determine the demographic features, morphological conditions, body distribution and possible associated conditions; and to review the therapeutic modalities used for acne vulgaris. Patients suffering from acne vulgaris constituted 17.8% of the new patients seen at the clinic. The majority (92%) were Saudis. Females were the predominant gender with male to female ratio of 1:1.56. The mean age of onset was 16.3 ± 2.1 years for the males, and 14.8 ± 3.9 years for the females (p-value = 0.003). The face was involved in all cases. However, the face alone was involved in approximately three quarters of the cases and both facial and truncal lesions were noted in nearly a quarter. Inflammatory acne was the predominant type observed in both males and females (76% and, 79%, respectively). The difference was not statistically significant. Seborrhea "greasy skin" was the most common associated condition (11%). TIM With respect to complications, hyperpigmentation was the most common (32%) followed by scars (20%). Benzoyl peroxide was the most commonly used acne medication (42%); hormonal therapy was the least (0.5%).