What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a common skin condition characterized by persistent facial redness, facial flushing, dryness, and sensitivity. Individuals may also develop small dilated blood vessels (telangiectasias) on the face. The disease is most often seen in adults and rarely affects children – it is often referred to as “adult acne.” Most affected individuals are fair-skinned such as those of Celtic and Northern European origin. There are four main subtypes of rosacea depending on the appearance and distribution of the rash.
The precise cause of the disease is uncertain but likely related to immune system abnormalities, reactions to skin bacteria, and exposure to UV (ultraviolet) radiation. Various factors can make the condition …show more content…
• How is rosacea treated?
What causes rosacea?
The precise cause of rosacea is not known, however, the condition appears to be related to abnormalities in the innate immune system and inflammatory reactions against bacterial skin flora. UV (ultraviolet) radiation damage from the sun is also implicated in the pathogenesis of the disorder. Lastly, there is evidence to suggest that vascular reactivity likely contributes to facial flushing in rosacea. Dilation of the blood vessels of the face typically leads to flushing and erythema (redness).
How common is rosacea?
Rosacea has a prevalence of about 1%-10% in fair-skinned individuals. People of Celtic and Northern European origin are at increased risk for the disease. The condition can occur in people with dark skin complexion, but this is very infrequent – increased melanin or genetic factors may have a protective effect against rosacea in these individuals.
Most people are diagnosed with rosacea after age 30. Consequently, the disease is often referred to as “adult acne.” Women are affected more often than men. The condition is often evaluated in the primary care clinic, but advanced cases may require referral to a dermatology specialist, particularly if first-line measures are …show more content…
Patients with refractory rosacea may benefit from Accutane (oral isotretinoin).
Rosacea Patient Summary:
• Rosacea is a common skin condition characterized by persistent facial redness, facial flushing, dryness, and sensitivity. The disease is most often seen in adults.
• Affected individuals are usually fair-skinned (eg, Celtic and Northern European origin).
• The precise cause of the disease is unclear but likely related to immune system abnormalities, reactions to skin bacteria, and exposure to UV (ultraviolet) radiation.
• Various factors can make the condition worse, including temperature, sun exposure, hot beverages, spicy foods, exercise, and alcohol.
• The diagnosis is typically made based on the appearance of the rash. Biopsies are not necessary in most cases but may be indicated if the diagnosis is uncertain.
• The treatment of rosacea begins with general measures such as avoiding triggers, protection against UV rays of the sun, and proper skin care.
• Some individuals use cosmetics to help conceal the rash.
• Self-administered topical therapy for facial redness includes Mirvaso