Post-adolescent Acne in Women –What is the Cause and How can it be Managed?
Increasing numbers of women worldwide continue to have acne after adolescence or may even develop it in their 20s to 40s. Polycystic ovary syndrome may be an underlying cause of postadolescent acne in women. Assessment should include menstrual history taking and examination for clinical signs of hyperandrogenism, such as hirsutism. Hormone therapy (usually the combined oral contraceptive pill) is an effective adjunct in the management of post-adolescent acne in women, including those with normal serum androgen profiles. Other antiandrogens, such as cyproterone acetate, may need to be taken in addition to the oral contraceptive pill.
Modern Medicine – Issue 4 2024
