Acne-associated spondylarthropathy: radiographic features

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Rheumatology
• Radiology

Background:

• Severe acne can present with systemic manifestations.
• The follicular occlusion triad (severe acne, hidradenitis suppurativa, dissecting cellulitis) is a rare dermatologic condition.
• Arthritis associated with dermatologic conditions requires further investigation.

Observation:

• Six patients with severe acne and associated axial and peripheral arthritis were studied.
• Four patients presented with the follicular occlusion triad.
• All patients were black men experiencing episodic peripheral arthropathy and low back pain.

Findings:

• An erosive and proliferative arthritis affecting the axial and appendicular skeleton was observed.
• Radiographic findings were characteristic of seronegative spondylarthropathies.
• Rheumatoid factor and HLA-B27 were negative in most patients tested.

Implications:

• This case series highlights a potential new articulocutaneous disease entity.
• The findings suggest a link between severe acne, specific dermatologic conditions, and spondylarthropathy.
• Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis and classification of this condition.