What is Acne urticata ? and how to treat them ?
Acne Urticata :
Acne urticata is a term that is not often used today . It describe very itchy papules or prurigo that affects the face , neck and cape area. it is not actually acne . it is not actually acne . It is not clear whether acne urticata is a unique disorder . lesions described as acne urticata may be localised form of compulsive skin picking . others confined to sun exposed sites are likely a form polymorphous light erupation . The cutaneous manifestations most frequently associated withpolycythemia vera are a purlish -red discoloration of the ksin and mucous membranes and ecchymoses particular over the lower extreities . Both of these manifestation are readily understandable on the bais of the increase in total red cell volume characteristic of this disease .
These commoner cutaneous manifestations , acne urticata has been described in association with polycythemia vera more frequently than any other eruption . The term acne urticata was first used by Kaposi to designate a chronic , severely pruritic eruption characterized by the development of pale red elevated wheal - like papules ranging from the size of a pea to that of a small coin , surmounted by a vesicle with turbid contents . the vesicle or pustule is rapidly excoriated, and the surface of the papule become crusted . Involution occurs, crusted. involution occurs , with the formation of a delicate scar and hyperpigmentation .
What are the causes of acne urticata ?
The causes of acne urticata is not understood . it may be due to an innate immune reaction within the hair follicle , resulting in the production of pruritogenic substances , a neuropathic form of pruritus , or psychogenic in origin . Although women with acne urticata are often under stress , it is hard to know whether the stress precedes the rash or whether the stress is caused by the rash 's itchiness .
In acne urticata , small bumps , blisters and pustules arise in the " cape " area of the body ie the face scalp , neck , upper arms and upper trunk . They are so intensely itchy that they are rapidly scratched or picked . This leaves unsightly , crusted lesions , which may then leave permanent small white scars .
How to treat acne urticata ?
Acne urticata is difficult to treat effectively and may persist for years . the following may be useful :
1. topical corticosteroids
2. long courses of oral antibiotics , usually a tetracycline
3. ultraviolet treatment . This is not suitable if the papules are provoked by exposure to light
4. tricyclic antidepressants , such as amitriptyline , which can reduce itch sensations in the skin
5. anti inflammatory agents such as methotrexate
6. behavioural therapy to reduce skin picking
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