Acne: Hormonal Concepts and Therapy

In 2004, Diane Thiboutot's research paper "Acne: Hormonal Concepts and Therapy" explored the role of hormones in acne development and the potential of hormonal therapy. The study found that hormones, particularly androgens, significantly influence acne, but most acne patients do not have an endocrine disorder. Hyperandrogenism was considered in female patients with severe acne, sudden onset, or associated with hirsutism or irregular menstrual periods. The study also discovered that most women with acne have normal serum androgen levels but respond to hormonal therapy. Hormonal therapy options included androgen receptor blockers, inhibitors of androgen production by the ovary or adrenal gland, and oral contraceptives. The paper also debunked the myth of antibiotic interaction reducing oral contraceptive efficacy. The study concluded that hormonal therapy, including oral contraceptives, is an excellent option for treating women whose acne is not responding to conventional therapy.