Quality of life of females with acne vulgaris in Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background

Skin diseases, including acne vulgaris, affect the quality of life of affected patients.¹ Although acne vulgaris is not life threatening, its attendant post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring may lead to interpersonal difficulties, unemployment, low self-esteem, anxiety and depression.²

Objective

It also assessed the impact of acne vulgaris on the quality of life of affected females.

Methods

Between April 2016 and October 2016, 70 consecutive female patients with acne vulgaris were recruited in the study. Global Acne Grading severity was used in measuring the severity of acne and Dermatology Quality Life Index was to assess the quality of life of these females.

Result

The mean age and standard deviation of the participants was 27.09 ± 7.28 years old. Mild and moderate acne was seen in 18.6% and 65.7% of the patients while 15.7% of the patients had severe acne. Quality of life was affected in 62.8% of subjects (p value < 0.001) and this was more impaired in patients with severe acne vulgaris.

Conclusion

This study showed that acne vulgaris affected the quality of life of the subjects and there was positive correlation between the severity of acne vulgaris and quality of life.