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Published on: September 15, 2017
Endocrine parameters in acne vulgaris
J B Schmidt1, A Lindmaier, J Spona
1Department of Dermatology II, University of Vienna, Austria.
Endocrinologia Experimentalis
|December 1, 1990
Summary
This study found androgens play a greater role in female acne than male acne. Elevated cortisol (F) was observed in both male and female acne patients, suggesting suprarenal involvement.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
- Androgen Biology
Background:
- Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition with complex etiologies.
- Hormonal imbalances, particularly androgens, are implicated in acne pathogenesis.
- Previous research suggests differing hormonal influences in male and female acne.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate hormonal profiles in male and female acne patients.
- To compare hormone levels between acne patients and healthy controls.
- To explore correlations between specific hormones and acne lesion counts.
Main Methods:
- Hormonal assays (radioimmunoassay) for testosterone, DHEAS, androstenedione, free testosterone, 17-OHP, SHBG, FSH, LH, prolactin, estradiol, and cortisol.
- Clinical assessment of acne lesion counts.
- Comparison of hormonal levels and lesion counts between acne patients and controls, stratified by sex.
Main Results:
- Female acne patients showed elevated testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and cortisol (F), with decreased estradiol.
- Male acne patients exhibited only elevated cortisol (F).
- Correlations between testosterone (free and total) and acne lesions were observed in both sexes, with free testosterone and androstenedione showing stronger links in females.
Conclusions:
- Androgens appear to play a more significant role in female acne compared to male acne.
- Elevated cortisol in both male and female acne patients suggests suprarenal gland involvement.
- Hormonal and peripheral skin factors contribute to acne development, with sex-specific differences observed.
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