| Acne |
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Acne is a chronic inflammatory disorder
of the skin, most commonly related to hormonal changes and
overactive sebaceous glands. Although acne is often thought
of as a "teenage" condition (due to the hormone
changes during adolescence causing many teenagers to have
acne), it can actually occur at any age. It may be affected
by heredity as well as emotional stress and environmental
factors.
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| There are several types of acne. |
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Seborrhea: This is
a skin condition caused by overactive sebaceous glands
with excess secretions. This is what is often referred
to as an "oily T-zone" in many patients.
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Rosacea: This is a
chronic inflammatory congestion involving typically the
cheeks and nose. It is characterized usually by redness
and dilation of the blood vessels in the affected area
and the formation of papules and pustules.
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Steatoma: This is
a sebaceous infection that may develop into a cyst. Sebaceous
cysts may range in size from a pea to an orange and unlike
the common acne "pimple", these may not improve
with time and may require surgical removal.
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Asteatosis: This is
a condition of dry and scaly skin caused by a deficiency
of sebum. It may be locally caused by alkalies in soap
or other detergents used on the skin.
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Furuncle: This is
also referred to as a "boil" and is caused by
a bacteria that enters the skin through the hair follicles.
This requires treatment by a physician.
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For any skin anomaly which is unusual
or does not resolve in a short time, including the more serious
of the above types of acne, patients are encouraged to seek
the attention of a physician. Early intervention may lessen
the degree of damage and scarring which can result. |
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