TLDR Many women with postadolescent acne also have hormonal imbalances and are at higher risk for metabolic issues.
In a study of 50 women with postadolescent acne conducted from July to December 2014, researchers found a high prevalence of hyperandrogenism and metabolic disorders. Specifically, 56% had seborrhea, 40% had hirsutism, 26% had androgenetic alopecia (AGA), and 24% had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Additionally, 24% of the women had metabolic syndrome (MS) and 44% had dyslipidemia. A significant association was observed between MS and patients with AGA and hirsutism. However, no significant association was found between MS and menstrual irregularity or PCOS, nor between dyslipidemia and AGA, hirsutism, PCOS, and menstrual irregularity. The study also noted that 28% of the women had an increase in at least one androgenic hormone, with a notable change in prolactin levels. The prevalence of PCOS in these women was higher than the national average, and hirsutism was significantly more common than in the general population. The study suggests that postadolescent acne may be an early marker for PCOS and could help in the early diagnosis and prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus, MS, and hypercholesterolemia. The research indicates a need for further controlled studies to explore the relationship between postadolescent acne and metabolic disorders. No conflicts of interest or financial support were reported for the study.
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