Acne
It is a dermatological affection and inflammation of the sebaceous glands. It is characterized by pimples, swollen nodules, superficial cysts full of pus, and in extreme cases, with swollen deep sacs, in some cases purulent, which open themselves to the exterior.
Usually, it is located on the face and the back. It appears manily during adolescence (when the androgen rise increases the size and the activity of the sebaceous glands), however, it can also affect people between 20-40 years old.
The first alteration is an intrafollicle hyperkeratosis that blocks the exit of the sebaceous follicle, with the consequent formation of the comedone composed of fat, keratin, and microorganisms (especially the Corynebacterium acne). The Corynebacterium acne breaks the fat triglycerides and forms free fatty acids, that irate the follicle walls. The retention of fat secretions and the follicle dilatation may cause the cysts’ formation. The follicle ball-and socket releases the free fatty acids and bacterial product into the tissues, causing an inflammatory reaction. In extreme cases, it heals leaving a scar.
In the acne etiology, different factors are involved (hormonal, psycological, medicinal, nutritional, etc). Usually, it gets worse during the winter, and improves during the summer, due to the sun rays’ effect on it.

Top