Acne Necrotica (also known as acne necrotica varioliformis) is a rare inflammatory follicular disorder that affects the scalp and face, primarily in adults. It is not a true form of acne vulgaris, despite the name, but is instead classified under neutrophilic or lymphocytic folliculitis.
🔍 Key Features of Acne Necrotica:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Onset | Adults (typically 30–60 years), both sexes |
| Common Sites | Scalp, face, hairline, neck, upper trunk |
| Primary Lesions | Small, itchy or painful papules or pustules centered around hair follicles |
| Evolution | Lesions often become necrotic (ulcerated), crusted, and heal with pitted scars (similar to smallpox scars) |
| Scarring | Prominent varioliform (pock-like) scars are a hallmark |
| Associated Conditions | Sometimes associated with systemic diseases like lupus erythematosus or internal malignancies in rare cases |
🧪 Causes and Pathogenesis:
Likely an autoimmune or hypersensitivity reaction to bacteria (especially Staphylococcus aureus) or yeasts in the hair follicle.
Immunologic factors, follicular occlusion, and microbial agents all may contribute.
🧑⚕️ Diagnosis:
Clinical Examination: Based on characteristic lesions and scarring pattern.
Dermoscopy/Biopsy: May be used to confirm follicular inflammation with necrosis.
Cultures: To identify possible bacterial involvement.
💊 Treatment Options:
| Category | Options |
|---|---|
| Topical | Antibiotics (clindamycin), corticosteroids |
| Oral Antibiotics | Doxycycline, minocycline (for anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect) |
| Oral Isotretinoin | In resistant or severe cases |
| Corticosteroids | Short course oral or intralesional steroids for inflammation |
| Antiseptic shampoos | For scalp involvement (e.g., ketoconazole) |
📌 Prognosis:
Chronic and relapsing.
Early treatment helps reduce scarring.
Scars are often permanent, hence early diagnosis and intervention is key.
🔄 Differential Diagnoses:
Folliculitis decalvans
Acne conglobata
Dissecting cellulitis
Varicella scars (for healed lesions)