Pathogenesis of acne : recent findings

Abstract

Acne is a common problem in dermatological practice. It is a self-limited disease with occasional permanent scar and it may cause psychological problem. The pathogenesis of acne has not been clearly elucidated. But accepted hypothesis such as 1)follicular hypercornification and follicular plugging, 2) increase sebum production, 3) Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes), and 4) inflammation has guided successfully therapy. The recent findings give emphasis on inflammation process more than follicular plugging. The new reports support the important role of Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes). The new discoveries, such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), also facilitate our understanding of acne pathogenesis.