Comedone
Pronunciation: KOM-eh-dohn (singular); KOM-eh-dohnz (plural)
A plugged hair follicle unit consisting of sebum, keratin, and dead cells, representing the primary lesion of acne vulgaris.
Full Definition
A comedone is the basic non-inflammatory lesion of acne vulgaris, formed when a hair follicle becomes occluded with a mixture of sebum and cornified keratinocytes. Comedones are classified as open (blackheads) or closed (whiteheads) depending on whether the follicular ostium is dilated or closed. Editors should note the preferred plural form in medical publishing is 'comedones,' not 'comedos.' The term is sometimes misspelled as 'comedo' (singular) when authors intend the plural, requiring careful copy-editing. In grading scales such as the Leeds Acne Grading System, comedones are enumerated separately from inflammatory lesions.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred plural is 'comedones.' Flag 'comedos' as non-standard. Distinguish open comedones (blackheads) from closed comedones (whiteheads) when the author conflates the two.
In Context
- "The patient presented with multiple closed comedones across the forehead and chin, with no inflammatory papules or pustules noted." — Dermatology outpatient clinic letter
- "Authors should use 'comedones' as the plural form; 'comedos' is non-standard and should be corrected on copy-edit." — Journal style guide note