Psychosocial impact of acne vulgaris. evaluation of the relation between a change in clinical acne severity and psychosocial state.
BACKGROUND
Although knowledge concerning the impact of acne vulgaris on quality of life has increased in recent years, relatively few studies have assessed the effect of a change in clinical severity on psychosocial state.


OBJECTIVE
Assessment of the effect of a change in clinical acne severity on psychosocial state.


METHODS
This was investigated by means of questionnaires and clinical assessments by acne patients and dermatologists. Fifty females with mild to moderate facial acne were seen before and after a 9-month treatment with oral contraceptives.


RESULTS
The results showed a great variability in psychosocial impairment between individuals. After 9 months, a significant reduction in clinical severity was seen overall which did not relate to the significant improvements in self-esteem, stability of self-esteem and acceptance of appearance.


CONCLUSIONS
Perceived psychosocial impairment is individually based, is greater in women who subjectively overrate their acne and does not relate to clinical improvement.
Mulder
M M
MM
Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Sigurdsson
V
V
van Zuuren
E J
EJ
Klaassen
E J
EJ
Faber
J A
JA
de Wit
J B
JB
van Vloten
W A
WA
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000473:pathology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D000328:Adult; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000473:pathology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D012649:Self Concept; D016353:Self-Examination; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012917:Social Adjustment; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires