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Vulgaris
Rich Callahan MSPA, PA-C
ICM I Summer 2009
Sebaceous Glands
Distributed most densely on face, chest, back, upper arms.
Positioned around the infundibulum (main tube) of the
pore, each having a single duct communicating with it.
Secrete sebum (oil) into the duct. Sebum is rich in
triglycerides.
Highly sensitive to hormonal stimulation by androgens.
Circulating testosterone reaches the skin, where it is
changed into dihydrotestosterone (DHT.)
DHT acts on the sebaceous glands causing increase in size
and oil production.
Clinical Presentation
Acne presents as solitary or grouped comedones, papules,
pustules, nodules and cysts. Mild to severe inflammation
will accompany all with the exception of comedones.
Generally distributed on forehead, face, neck, chest and
back. Rarely appears on scalp. Corresponds with areas of
highest sebaceous gland density.
Patients are usually, although not always anxious and selfconscious about their condition, which can lend the disease
a strong emotional component.
Many patients previously diagnosed and frustrated with
treatment.
Diagnosis
Almost always a straightforward, visual diagnosis.
Vast majority of cases are pre-pubescent and pubescent
males and females. Significant number of cases middleaged women; rare in post-pubescent males.
I have seen a few cases of acne suddenly appearing in
patients with no prior history and who dont fit into the
above categories
When you see this look for occupational acne: Workplace
exposure to light oils (machine oil, cosmetics) which
occludes pores leading to comedogenesis and acne. This is
the only type of acne I have needed to biopsy for diagnosis.