Acne
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Hospital Level, Adults 2019 Edition
Extemporaneous compounding of some of the preparations listed should only take place at institutions where the competencies and equipment are available.
L70.0-5/L70.8-9
DESCRIPTION
Acne is an inflammatory condition of the pilosebaceous unit. Secondary changes can lead to scarring and pigmentation.
Mild acne:
Predominantly consists of non-inflammatory comedones.
Moderate acne:
Consists of a mixture of non-inflammatory comedones and inflammatory papules and pustules.
Severe acne:
Characterised by the presence of widespread nodules and cysts, as well as a preponderance of inflammatory papules and pustules.
GENERAL MEASURES
- Do not squeeze lesions.
- Avoid greasy or oily topical products such as moisturisers that block the hair follicle openings.
- Discourage excessive facial washing.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
- For the primary management of acne, see: Acne Vulgaris.
- Women who have inflammatory acne and also require oral contraception can be initiated on a cyproterone acetate-containing combined oral contraceptive pill, provided that they have no personal or family history of breast cancer or venous thrombosis.
- Cyproterone acetate 2 mg plus ethinyl estradiol 35 mcg, oral daily
LoE:Iai
Note:
Discuss all severe cases with a dermatologist.
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Adult Hospital Level, 2020-2024_Version 1.0_07 November 2024
Chapter 4 Dermatology_4.1 Acne