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Introduction Acne Vulgaris is a dermatological genetic-hormonal illness, self-limited, in pilosebaceous locations, with formation of comedones, papules and cysts in which evolution to a greater inflammatory process is added, leading to formation of pustules and abscesses, with frequent cicatricial success, causing great psychological impact in patients affected by this disease [1]. Acne Vulgaris lesions predominate in exposed areas such as face and thorax, which leads to feelings of guilt, shame and social isolation. Facial appearance has an important role in self- perception, as well as in the interaction with others, face lesions cause a significant impact in children quality of life.According to Thomas: In the long run acne may cause cutaneous as well as psychological scars [2]. \nIts prevalence is highest in adolescence. It affects 85% of young adults aged 12–25 years. Different researches indicate that rates of anxiety and depression among individuals with significant acne symptoms are about double those of non-acne sufferers [3]. The impact of acne vulgaris on mental health and self-esteem has been identified in different studies [4], but there are no data in Albanian patients. Aim The aim of this study is to assess the impact of Acne Vulgaris on self - esteem, and their relationship with mental health problems in an Albanian sample of adolescents. Methods 65 adolescents with acne vulgaris, aged 13–19 years without any psychiatric or medical co morbidity were recruited, from the Dermatology Outpatient unit of University Hospital, Tirana. The control group consisted of 60 adolescents, recruited in a high school, in the same age range, who had neither psychiatric disease nor acne. Severity of acne was evaluated by Global Acne Grading System. Self-esteem of the patients was evaluated with Rosenberg Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depresion Score were applied to both groups. Results Acne is associated with increased anxiety, poor self-esteem. Significant correlation between poor self-esteem, anxiety and severity of acne p=0.01 Non singificant correlation between depression and severity of acne vulgaris, p=0.05 Conclusions Acne Vulgaris must be considered as an illness with the potential to affect the quality of life and mental health. Effective treatment of the acne itself, in combination with the appropriate mental health support, offers the highest chance of improving the quality of life of acne sufferers. Acne is not a trivial disease in comparison with other chronic conditions.Even if acne is not associated with severe morbidity, mortality or physical disability, it can nevertheless have considerable psychological and social consequences [5]. Reducing the psycho social impact of acne is considered one of the guiding principles for its clinical management, and it is important to measure and evaluate this impact .The severe burden of acne is strong justification for effective acne treatment and psychiatric screening for patients with the condition. Most important, improvements in acne after appropriate treatment have been shown to result in enhanced self-esteem, body image and social functioning. |
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