Acne vs Seb Derm vs Rosacea on Face

Distinguishing between acne, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis (seb derm) on the face involves considering various clinical features, triggers, distribution patterns, and associated symptoms. Here are the key differentiating points:

1. Acne:

   • Primary Features: Acne vulgaris typically presents with comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, and occasionally nodules or cysts.
   • Distribution: Commonly affects areas with high sebaceous gland density such as the face, chest, and back.
   • Triggers: Hormonal changes, excess sebum production, bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes), and inflammation contribute to acne development.
   • Associated Symptoms: May be associated with oily skin, enlarged pores, and occasional scarring.
   • Age of Onset: Onset typically occurs during adolescence but can persist into adulthood.
   • Treatment: Treatments include topical agents (benzoyl peroxide, retinoids), oral medications (antibiotics, hormonal therapy), and procedural interventions (chemical peels, laser therapy).

2. Rosacea:

   • Primary Features: Rosacea presents with persistent facial redness, flushing, telangiectasia (visible blood vessels), and papules/pustules resembling acne, particularly on the central face.
   • Triggers: Triggers include sunlight, heat, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and certain medications.
   • Distribution: Typically affects the central face, including the cheeks, nose, chin, and central forehead.
   • Associated Symptoms: May include burning or stinging sensations, dryness, and ocular symptoms (ocular rosacea).
   • Age of Onset: Often develops in adults between the ages of 30 and 50.
   • Treatment: Treatment involves avoiding triggers, topical medications (metronidazole, azelaic acid), oral antibiotics, and in some cases, laser or light therapies.

3. Seborrheic Dermatitis (Seb Derm):

   • Primary Features: Seborrheic dermatitis presents with erythematous patches, greasy scales, and mild itching, typically in areas rich in sebaceous glands, such as the scalp, face (especially nasolabial folds, eyebrows, and hairline), and central chest.
   • Triggers: Overgrowth of the yeast Malassezia, sebum production, and immune system response contribute to seb derm.
   • Distribution: Often affects areas with higher sebaceous gland activity, especially the scalp, face, and chest.
   • Associated Symptoms: May include dandruff (on the scalp), greasy or oily skin, and occasionally mild pruritus.
   • Age of Onset: Can occur at any age, including infancy (cradle cap) and adulthood.
   • Treatment: Treatment involves antifungal agents (such as ketoconazole), topical corticosteroids, tar-based products, and antifungal shampoos for scalp involvement.

Differential Diagnosis:

• Clinical Presentation: Acne presents with comedones and inflammatory lesions, while rosacea features persistent facial redness and telangiectasia. Seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by erythematous patches with greasy scales, often involving the scalp.
• Distribution: Acne typically affects areas with high sebaceous gland density, whereas rosacea predominantly affects the central face. Seborrheic dermatitis commonly involves areas rich in sebaceous glands, such as the scalp, face, and chest.
• Triggers: Different triggers, such as hormonal changes for acne, sunlight and spicy foods for rosacea, and fungal overgrowth for seborrheic dermatitis, can help differentiate these conditions.
• Associated Symptoms: Each condition may have unique associated symptoms, such as ocular involvement in rosacea or dandruff in seborrheic dermatitis.

In summary, while acne, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis can share some overlapping features, careful consideration of clinical presentation, distribution patterns, triggers, and associated symptoms helps in making an accurate diagnosis and implementing appropriate treatment strategies.