Rosacea

Face | Dermatology | Rosacea (Disease)


Description

Rosacea is a common condition characterized by symptoms of facial flushing and a spectrum of clinical signs, including erythema, telangiectasia, coarseness of skin, and an inflammatory papulopustular eruption resembling acne. Major pathogenic components appear to be inflammatory, vascular and neural in origin.

Causes and Risk factors

There is no definitive evidence that rosacea is caused by a microbial pathogen, such as a bacterium, parasite or virus. Rosacea has been shown to exhibit a negative impact on quality of life. Surveys have shown that approximately 70% of rosacea patients experience lower self-confidence and lower self-esteem as a result of their condition, with 41% of patients avoiding public contact or canceling social engagements.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Rosacea is currently not considered a curable condition. While it cannot be cured, it can usually be controlled with proper, regular treatments. There are some forms of rosacea that may be significantly cleared for long periods of time using laser, intense pulse light, photodynamic therapy, or isotretinoin.

Although still not considered a cure, some patients experience long-lasting results and may have remissions (disease-free period of time) for months to years. Mild rosacea may not necessarily require treatment if the individual is not bothered by the condition. More resistant cases may require a combination approach, using several of the treatments at the same time. ...