Abstract

*Areena Arooj, Hina Kainat and Dr. Bilawal Sultan

ABSTRACT

Background: Acne, often misunderstood as simple puberty -related condition, can lead to social and psychological impairments comparable to those caused by chronic diseases like asthma, epilepsy and arthritis. Measuring impact of acne on quality of life allows us to understand the disease from patient’s view, selecting appropriate treatment and understanding the concept of counselling for better compliance. Material and Method: Cross sectional study on 700 acne patients attending Dermatology O.P.D, Services Hospital, Lahore over a period of 3 years was done. Inclusion criteria was males or females of >14 years with acne of any severity. Exclusion criteria was age <14 years, patients on drugs causing acneiform eruption, known psychiatric patients and those having other chronic skin conditions. Patients filled questionnaire on life quality based on CADI. Data gathered was analysed using Pearson coefficient of correlations and through SPSS software version 14. Results: Maximum impact on life quality was seen in moderate (58%) followed by mild (28.4%) and severe (12.7%) grades of acne. Highest impact of acne was found in age group 19-23 years (42.8%) followed by 24-28 years (42.7%) and above 32 years (2.28%). Handpicking (56%), rubbing (12%) and frequent hand washing (11%) were among commonly encountered habits. Among specific responses of CADI, 63% felt aggressive and frustrated, 73% showed social interference and 25% reported avoidance of public changing. Conclusion: Study confirmed that acne has significant impact on life quality. By identifying high risk patients and incorporating psychocutaneous information into treatment plan, can avert potentially disastrous emotional and functional sequelae.