How to Diagnose Cystic Acne
A painful and slow-healing skin condition, cystic acne is caused by a severe blockage of pores deep down within the skin. A condition that affects more boys than girls and can be hereditary, cystic acne can cause embarrassment and scarring if left untreated. Learn how to diagnose cystic acne to receive the proper treatment.
Instructions
-
-
1
Find a dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in conditions of the skin) in your area that accepts your insurance. A dermatologist has the expertise to properly diagnose cystic acne and base treatment on your unique condition.
-
2
Observe the severity of your acne to determine if you suffer from cystic acne. If you have a multitude of painful red bumps with puss-filled cysts, cystic acne is a probable diagnosis. Severe acne that doesn't respond to traditional treatment methods can also signal cystic acne.
-
-
3
Expect a dermatologist to take a thorough medical history. Tell her all of the medications you currently take, any allergies you may have and answer all questions regarding your lifestyle fully and accurately to help her to make a precise diagnosis.
-
4
Know that there are no official diagnostic tests for cystic acne. Your dermatologist can diagnose cystic acne based on the close observation of your infected skin coupled with your medical history.
-
5
Treat cystic acne. The appropriate treatments for cystic acne depend on the severity of your condition and your response to the individual treatments. Oral antibiotics are often prescribed to kill the bacteria that cause cystic acne. If antibiotics fail, a doctor may inject the infected areas with anti-inflammatory medications to encourage healing. The most severe cases of cystic acne are treated with isotretinoin, a topical treatment that is very strong.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Never use prescription medications to treat cystic acne without the consent of your doctor. Medications prescribed for one patient may not be safe for other patients.
Never pick at your cystic acne. This can increase the oil produced and encourage the spread of bacteria which can cause more breakouts and increase scarring.
