Washington, Mar 16 (ANI): New research has revealed that depression and other psychological disorders may be more prevalent in adolescent acne patients.
Steve Feldman, a professor of Dermatology at Wake Forest Baptist, conducted a systematic review of published literature which found that while most teenagers consider acne to be a cosmetic problem, many others report that acne has a significant impact on their self-esteem and quality of life, often leading to anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.
"With this study, we found that acne is more than skin deep for those aged 13 to 18," Feldman said. "Depending on how the patient feels about it, acne can have a potentially large and negative impact on their lives or it can have a small affect."
As a result, Feldman said the presence of these psychological disorders "should be considered in the treatment of acne patients when appropriate."
Acne doesn't have to be viewed as a normal rite of passage that goes along with puberty, Feldman said. A strong physician-patient relationship and taking a thorough medical history may help to identify patients at risk for these adverse psychological effects, he added. And for teens who are successfully treated, symptoms of depression can be alleviated and their quality of life improved.
The study appears in Dermatology Online Journal. (ANI)
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