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Serum Neurotensin: An Objective Mirror to Acne-induced Quality of Life and Psychological Impairment
Nancy W Mikhael1,2,3,4, Amira I Mansour1,2,3,4, Esraa M Salah El Din1,2,3,4
1Dr. Mikhael is a Professor of Dermatology and Andrology and Dr. Salem is an Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Andrology, Dermatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, at Benha University in Benha, Egypt.
Background:
Acne is a multifactorial disorder, and stress potentially plays a role in its pathogenesis.
Objectives:
We aimed to assess the serum levels of neurotensin in patients with acne vulgaris (AV) and investigate the relationship of these levels to quality of life (QoL), depression, anxiety, and stress.
Methods:
The study included 60 patients with AV classified into mild (n=20), moderate (n=20), and severe (n=20) groups and 20 healthy, age-matched, sex-matched, and body mass index (BMI)-matched individuals in a control group. Patient QoL was assessed using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Each participant completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Serum levels of neurotensin were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Results:
Neurotensin levels and scores from the three questionnaires were significantly higher among the patients with AV than the control subjects. They were also significantly elevated in patients with post-acne scars and hyperpigmentation and in those with severe acne.
Conclusion:
It is well known that acne greatly impacts QoL and might be associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. Further, serum neurotensin could be a promising marker to objectively evaluate the psychosocial impact of AV.
