Acne Vulgaris
Pronunciation: AK-nee vul-GAIR-iss
The most common form of acne, characterised by a combination of comedonal, inflammatory, and nodulocystic lesions, frequently managed in cosmetic dermatology alongside scar treatment.
Full Definition
Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit characterised by the formation of comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts, primarily on the face, chest, and back. In cosmetic dermatology, it is often addressed alongside sequelae such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne scarring. Editors must not abbreviate 'acne vulgaris' to 'acne' without confirming this is acceptable within the document's style; 'vulgaris' is a Latin descriptor meaning 'common' and should not be italicised in standard clinical text. Distinguish from acne rosacea and perioral dermatitis.
Usage
Usage note: 'Vulgaris' is written in roman type, not italics, in English clinical documents. Do not substitute 'acne rosacea' or simply 'rosacea', which are distinct conditions.
In Context
- "The patient had a ten-year history of acne vulgaris with predominantly comedonal lesions on the cheeks and forehead." — Dermatology referral letter
- "The brochure incorrectly used 'acne rosacea' when 'acne vulgaris' was clearly the intended diagnosis; the editor flagged the discrepancy." — Patient education brochure review