Benign Skin Condition

This article provides the reader with sufficient amount of information about Rosacea, a very common red, acne-like benign skin condition that affects many people worldwide. The article also demonstrates the related statistical information about the condition along with brief etiology and pathophysiology, triggers and proper skin care, subtypes of rosacea, and finally the proper ways to diagnosis.

Rosacea, a chronic inflammatory disorder, affects 16 million U.S. residents between the ages of 30 and 60. More than 76% of them report lowered self-esteem and self-confidence, and 41% say they avoid outings as a result of rosacea symptoms. Rosacea produces variable symptoms ranging from slight blushing to noticeable papules and pustules, usually in the convexities of the central face. It can be difficult to treat, in part due to its unknown etiology. Recent research points to infectious and inflammatory components, vascular instabilities and pilosebaceous abnormalities. Some of this evidence suggests that Demodex, a parasitic mite that lives near hair follicles, could play a role in uncontrolled rosacea. Other findings suggest that staphylococcus epidermidis may play a role in some types of rosacea. Triggers can include, but are not limited to: temperature (hot and cold), repeated exposure to wind, stress, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, hot beverages, smoking, sun exposure and topical irritants. Rosacea is categorized into four subtypes: Ocular, phymatous, erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular. Patients who suffer from ocular rosacea suffer from dry or burning sensation in the eyes. Eyelids may become inflamed, swollen, sore or even scaly, similar to the appearance of conjunctivitis, or pink eye which can have a significant impact, such as causing damage to the cornea or affecting patients' overall vision. Ocular rosacea is treated over time with low-dose oral antibiotics containing tetracycline. Phymatous rosacea occurs when either vascular or inflammatory rosacea goes untreated or is not treated properly. Phymatous rosacea causes rhinophyma, a process where excess skin grows on the nose, cheeks or forehead, giving it a thickened appearance. Laser or surgical treatments are required to remove excess skin. With erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, patients complain of flushing, blushing, persistent erythema, a feeling of heat, or a burning and/or tingling sensation. Usually, small blood vessels on patients' nose and cheeks swell and become visible,