Sexual Dysfunction in Female Patients With Adult Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease of pilosebaceous units. It is characterized by formation of comedones, erythematous papules, pustules and less frequently by nodules, deep pustules, or pseudocysts. In some cases, it may be accompanied by scarring. It is the most common dermatological condition affecting adolescents worldwide. It has a prevalence of almost 85% in people aged 12-24 years . Women have a high prevalence than men, especially after 25 years of age. It affects 12%-22% of women in their adult life.

Several factors are involved in the pathogenesis of the disease including abnormal sebum production, altered follicular keratinization with subsequent follicular plugging and Propionibacterium acnes colonization . Also, endocrine factor or androgens are considered a major factor involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. It probably results from an androgen excess or exacerbated response of the pilosebaceous unit to the normal circulating androgen levels.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder to affect women in their reproductive years. It is characterized by hyperandrogenism which results in a series of skin changes including hirsutism, acne, seborrhea and androgenetic alopecia.

Acne vulgaris causes profound negative psychological and social effects on the quality of life (QoL) of patients. It has a great impact on appearance which is linked with self-esteem and self-confidence. Factors that influence the psychological impact of acne include perceived sexual attractiveness, relationships with family and friends, judgments of others, stigmatization, stress, and fear of scarring.

Several researches concluded that body image is an important psychological factor in women sexual well-being. Female sexual dysfunction may associate certain dermatologic diseases as a result of its effect on self-esteem and psychological conditions.