Gungor, Emel2023-02-212023-02-212012-01-0110.5152/tdd.2012.31https://hdl.handle.net/11443/1018http://dx.doi.org/10.5152/tdd.2012.31Acne is a chronic disorder of pilosebaceous unit clinically characterized by comedones, papules, pustules, nodules and scarring. It affects almost 85\% of young people between 12-24 years of age. Four main pathophysiologic factors that influence the development of acne areincreased sebum secretion, abnormal follicular desquamation, P. acnes colonization of the follicle and inflammation. The treatment of acne includestopical retinoids, topical antimicrobial agents, systemic antibiotics, hormonal therapy and oral isotretinoin. Topical retinoids should be used as the first choice in comedonal acne, in combination with topical and/or systemic antimicrobials for mild to moderate inflammatory acne and as maintenance therapy once clearance has been achieved. Topical and systemic antibiotics which are used to treat moderate inflammatory acne should not be used as monotherapy but combined with topical benzoyl peroxide or topical retinoids and should be stopped as soon as possible. Hormonal therapy is an excellent choice for women, especially if oral contraception is desired. It may also be used for female patients with severe seborrhea, late onset acne and with proven hyperandrogenism. Oral isotretinoin targets all pathophysiologic factors in acne and is the mainstay of therapy for severe acne. It has to be kept in mind that the management of acne and compliance of the patient to the treatment can be enhanced by a number of general strategies such as education about acne and treatment, skin care, diet and adjuvant procedures.AcnepathogenesistherapyArticleWOS:000420886900002