Classification of Acne Vulgaris

Abstract

Nosology does not rank high among the pre-occupationsof acne researchers. Yet, the lack of an internationally accepted scheme for classifying and grading the severity of acne has been a prime source of confusion and controversy. The result is that data originating in different places cannot be compared because the criteria are so different. This hampers every field of investigation beginning with epidemiologic surveys concerning the prevalence of acne in different countries. At present we have no idea whether, as casual observations suggest, acne is more prevalent in meat eating versus vegetarian countries, in cold climates as compared to warm ones, etc., etc. What dermatologists might rate as severe acne in Japan might be considered mild by American experts.