Acne
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People with acne frequently have a variety of lesions, some of which are shown in the diagrams below. The basic acne lesion, called the comedo (KOM-e-do), is simply an enlarged and plugged hair follicle. If the plugged follicle, or comedo, stays beneath the skin, it is called a closed comedo and produces a white bump called a whitehead. A comedo that reaches the surface of the skin and opens up is called an open comedo or blackhead because it looks black on the skin's surface. This black discoloration is due to changes in sebum as it is exposed to air. It is not due to dirt. Both whiteheads and blackheads may stay in the skin for a long time.
Other troublesome acne lesions can develop, including the following:
- Papules – inflamed lesions that usually appear as small, pink bumps on the skin and can be tender to the touch
- Pustules (pimples) – papules topped by white or yellow pus-filled lesions that may be red at the base
- Nodules – large, painful, solid lesions that are lodged deep within the skin
- Cysts – deep, painful, pus-filled lesions that can cause scarring.
What Causes This Skin Problem ?
The exact cause is unknown, but doctors believe it results from several related factors. One important factor is an increase in hormones called androgens (male sex hormones). These increase in both boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause the problem.
Another factor is heredity or genetics. Researchers believe that the tendency to develop acne can be inherited from parents. For example, studies have shown that many school-age boys have a family history of the disorder. Certain drugs, including androgens and lithium, are known to cause it. Greasy cosmetics may alter the cells of the follicles and make them stick together, producing a plug ...
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