Acne Keloidalis: A Review
June 1989
in “
The Journal of dermatologic surgery and oncology
”
Studysummary This article reviews acne keloidalis in young black men, describes its clinical and histopathological characteristics, and highlights surgical therapy approaches despite the uncertain etiology of the condition. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
Acne keloidalis was described as a chronic scarring folliculitis primarily affecting the posterior neck of young black men, characterized by follicular papules that merge into firm plaques and nodules. The inflammation in early lesions began at the deep infundibular and isthmic levels of the hair follicle, with an absence of sebaceous glands. The exact cause of acne keloidalis remained uncertain, with theories focusing on anatomical, infectious, and autoimmune factors. Successful surgical treatment of advanced cases was possible through various methods, provided that subfollicular destruction was achieved.