Pattern of Male Acne and Its Associated Health Related Quality of Life

Background: Documentations on pattern of acne and quality of life are mostly in adolescents and adult females. Female acne is said to be different from adolescent acne. It is not known if male acne is different. The aim of this study was to document the pattern of male acne vulgaris, compare with adolescent acne, determine the quality of life and the associated factors.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional prospective study of 64 male acne patients over a one year period. Socio-demographic parameters and clinical history was documented using a data questionnaire. Clinical examination to assess lesion type, anatomical location and severity of acne was conducted. Quality of life was assessed using the Cardiff Acne Disability Index. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 22 and a p value of <0.05 was adjudged to be significant for all tests.

Results: Mean age of the group was 22.8±7.4 years. Family history of acne was present in 45.3%, self-medication for acne in 47%. Duration of acne was >5years in 39.1%. Acne was located only on the face in 76.7%, lesions were non-inflammatory in 67.2%. Acne scar was present in 78.1%. Severity of acne was moderate in 42.2%. Quality of life was impaired in 98.4%; this was moderate 40.6%. Mean CADI was 7.4±3.3. All items on the CADI were impaired in 98.4% of the patients.

Study Limitations: Inability to compare male teenage to post-adolescent acne.

Conclusion: The pattern of male acne is no different from the adolescent pattern. Quality of life is impaired in most males.