Treatment of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae in a Southern California Population

Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the hair follicles that manifests as papules, pustules, and keloid-like plaques on the occipital scalp. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the most commonly used treatments and their efficacy in a large population of patients with AKN. We performed a cross-sectional analysis of patient medical records from the Los Angeles County hospital system in California over a period of 6 years. A total of 101 patients were included based on diagnosis of AKN by a dermatologist and documented treatment outcomes. Clindamycin and clobetasol were the most commonly prescribed topical treatments, while doxycycline was the most commonly prescribed systemic medication; intralesional (IL) triamcinolone also was commonly used. Most patients responded positively to these treatment regimens, but very few had full resolution with these treatments, reflecting a need for further study and new therapeutic modalities for AKN.