Post Adolescent Acne of the Back

Abstract

The literature contains no adequate description of this fairly common condition. Most patients are males. The lesions are mainly erythematous, follicular papules, sometimes small nodules, which are distributed in the typical acne area of the back, occasionally extending onto the arms. They are persistent, indurated lesions which usually do not discharge. Pustules are not numerous and may be absent. Comedones are inconspicuous. Scarring is minimal. Onset is in young adulthood, commonly persisting into the fifties and sixties. The lesions tend to improve in summer, but not always. A past history of acne may or may not be obtainable. Few show scars of acne vulgaris. An acne background is clearly not important.