Cystic acne, also known as “nodulocystic acne”, is the most serious type of acne vulgaris. Cystic acne appears as deep, inflamed pimples and skin lesions that develop on the skin of the face, neck, shoulders and other regions of the body. The lesions usually become very large sometimes measuring up to many centimeters in diameter.
The term “cystic acne” is often used by many to refer to other types of severe acne. However, in strict terms the condition is termed cystic acne only when cysts develop on the skin. Cysts appear as soft, pus-filled lumps just below the skin surface. Cysts are often very painful.
In nodulocystic acne, both nodules as well as cysts are developed. Nodules are very painful and hard lumps that develop below the skin surface. Nodules are much larger when compared to papules and develop deep below the skin surface. They usually take long time to heal completely. Some dermatologists are of the opinion that acne cysts are not exactly cysts. Rather, they are severely inflamed nodules that appear like cysts.
Acne where nodules develop, but not cystic lesions, the condition sis termed as “nodular acne”. Cystic acne is a serious skin condition that demands attention from a dermatalogist.
Cystic acne may develop in anyone. However, it occurs more frequently in adolescent boys and young men (early twenties). Genetic factors/heredity also plays an important role. Acne runs in families. If your parents or other relatives had cystic acne, you are at a higher risk of getting serious acne.
There several treatments for cystic acne. There are:
–> Antibacterials and antibiotics: The most commonly used antibacterial agent is benzoyl peroxide. Antibiotics used commonly to treat acne include erythromycin, and tetracycline administered either topically or orally.
–> Hormonal therapy: Hormonal therapy is used in females. It is aimed at reducing the levels of androgens which leads to decrease in acne.
–> Phototherapy: Phototherapy involves the use of blue/violet or red light to produce free radicals which kill the bacteria which causes acne. Phototherapy is every effective against acne.
–> Treatment using retinoids: Retinoids are compounds that are similar to vitamin A. These affect the life cycle of the cells lining the skin follicles and prevent their blockage. This prevents acne.
Alternative treatments like aloe vera extracts, neem, turmeric, calendula, tea tree oil and detoxification are also used against acne. However, their effectiveness against acne is disputed and there is limited evidence from studies on some of these treatments.