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Treating acne with antibiotic-resistant bacterial colonization
Thrasivoulos Tzellos1, Vasiliki Zampeli, Evgenia Makrantonaki
1Dessau Medical Center, Departments of Dermatology, Venereology, Allergology and Immunology, Auenweg Dessau, Germany. christos.zouboulis@klinikum-dessau.de
Introduction:
Acne is a chronic skin disorder of the pilosebaceous unit; it has a multifactorial pathogenesis. Propionibacterium acnes within the follicle is considered to be a triggering factor of inflammation in acne. Antibiotics have been the primary treatment against P. acnes for more than 40 years. However, a gradual increase in the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains of P. acnes has been observed.
Areas Covered:
This review discusses the pathophysiology of antibiotic-resistant acne development. It focuses on strategies to minimize the development of resistance and, most importantly, confront the development of antibiotic-resistant acne. The literature search was conducted up to August 2010, using the search terms 'acne', 'antibiotic-resistant acne' and 'bacterial resistance'.
Expert Opinion:
Antibiotic-resistant acne is a real phenomenon. Strategies to prevent and confront it should include not only the use of certain treatment regimens but also rational prescribing policies, combination therapies, use of antibacterial non-antibiotic agents and treatment options targeting all the pathogenetic components of acne. Benzoyl-peroxide-based treatment is the most evidence-based approach. Oral isotretinoin remains the most efficacious option for severe acne.
Insights
Antibiotic-resistant acne is a growing concern. Strategies to combat this include rational prescribing, combination therapies, and non-antibiotic agents, with benzoyl peroxide being a key treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Acne vulgaris is a common pilosebaceous unit disorder with complex pathogenesis.
- Propionibacterium acnes is implicated in acne inflammation, with antibiotics historically being the primary treatment.
- Increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Propionibacterium acnes strains poses a therapeutic challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of antibiotic-resistant acne.
- To explore strategies for minimizing antibiotic resistance development in acne treatment.
- To discuss approaches for managing antibiotic-resistant acne.
Main Methods:
- Literature review up to August 2010.
- Search terms included 'acne', 'antibiotic-resistant acne', and 'bacterial resistance'.
- Focus on pathophysiology and management strategies.
Main Results:
- Antibiotic resistance in acne is a significant clinical issue.
- Effective management requires a multi-faceted approach beyond traditional antibiotic use.
- Evidence supports benzoyl peroxide and oral isotretinoin for specific acne severities.
Conclusions:
- Antibiotic-resistant acne necessitates comprehensive management strategies.
- Rational prescribing, combination therapies, and non-antibiotic agents are crucial.
- Benzoyl peroxide demonstrates strong evidence, while oral isotretinoin is effective for severe cases.
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