Jessica San Juan Microbiology ACNE! Jessica San Juan Microbiology

Acne Vulgaris Acne is a skin condition characterized by whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed red pimples or "zits." Microorganism is Propionibacterium acnes ~ Disease is called ACNE. Acne is follicle-associated lesions from isloated pimples to widespread acne.

Misconceptions Chocolate, Nuts and other foods do not cause Acne

Causes Sebaceous Glands Blockage of pores= sebum and dead cells trapped get clogged at the pores. Overproduction of sebum through hormones (especially in males)

Causes continued… Acne tends to run in familes Triggered by: greasy or oily cosmetic products. Certain drugs like steroids, testosterone, and estrogen High levels of Humidity and sweating

Causative agent Bacteria is anaerobic aerotolerant, and gram positive. It releases enzymes, most important lipase

Signs and Syptoms Blackheads (plugged with dark sebum) Crusting of skin Cysts Inflamation around the skin Puss Scarring on skin Whiteheads (pore closed~comedo)

Prevention or treatment No effective prevention Only effective are topical agents that enhance the sloughing of skin cells Antibiotics Estrogen contraceptives (females) Accutane (side effect depression)

Link to video of HUGE pimple http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyzLrhHzqkc

References Microbiology – A systems Approach-Cowan & Talaro 2006 https://health.google.com/health/ref/Acne