Cystic Acne Information

Cystic Acne Introduction

Cystic acne is a severe form of acne. Cystic acne occurs on the face

chest, back and upper arms. The cyst is a result of total

disintegration of a comedo. Adjacent comedones may breakdown and fuse to create a large epithelial lined cyst. An abscess results from

disintegration of the comedo and the abscess destroys surrounding

follicles. Hemorrhage and purulent material accumulate. Surrounding

glands and follicles are destroyed. Acute inflammation ensues and a

foreign body reactions occur. Granulation tissue forms and scarring is

the end stage.

An acne cyst is not a true cyst. True cysts are round structures lined

by epithelium. The cyst fills with keratin and in most case enlarges

and remains intact. Occasionally they rupture and exude their contents

into the surrounding tissue. This stimulates an intense inflammatory

reaction.

Cystic or nodular acne can be a devastating disease. It is not possible

to predict which patients will develop this severe form of acne. Family

history may be important. The disease lasts longer and is more intense

in males. Cystic acne may evolve from papulopustular acne or may be

explosive form the onset.

Large deep cysts may smolder and evolve into draining sinuses. These

are seen primarily on the cheeks and neck. Epithelial lined tracks are

submerged in the dermis. They accumulate blood serum and purulent

material. The wall is poorly formed and easily ruptures. Purulent

material exudes into the dermis and onto the surface and propagates

this festering channel as it wanders through the dermis.