Acne aestivalis

The called Acne aestivalis also Mallorca acne and Sommerakne, is a genetically predisposed, photoreactive, acneiform disorder of the hair follicles and special form of solar dermatitis ( polymorphic light eruption ). The namesake of the disease was the Danish dermatologist Nils Hjorth, who first described the disease in 1972.

Epidemiology

Acne aestivalis occurs mainly with holidaymakers who expose themselves unprepared for a long time strong sunlight.

Symptoms

They form a few millimeters large, small nodules in the hair follicle. These may be skin-colored or slightly reddened. They usually appear on the shoulders, chest neck and upper back on, rarely is an infestation in the area of the face. When Acne aestivalis occur in contrast to other forms of acne on any purulent lesions, also, there are no or only occasional comedones.

Causes

Acne aestivalis is a skin reaction to UV radiation. The typical nodules are a consequence of fibrosis ( formation of connective tissue). Without the use of sunscreen this disease may occur. In rare cases, the Acne aestivalis is a side effect of PUVA ( photochemotherapy ).

Therapy

The disease heals prevent further UV exposure slowly. An additional keratolytic treatment as usual in acne vulgaris can accelerate the healing process.