Vitamin A acid in acneiform dermatoses.

A definition and classification of acneiform dermatoses is presented to distinguish these diseases from true acne. True acne is a follicular eruption which begins with a comedo, sometimes evolving into various inflammatory lesions. Members of true acne are acne vulgaris with its varieties, acne venenata, and comedonal acne due to physical agencies. Acneiform reactions begin with an inflammatory lesion, usually a papule or pustule. Comedones are uncommon and may follow pustules. Acneiform eruptions are almost always drug-induced, the commonest agents being corticosteroids and ACTH, iodides, bromides, anti-convulsive drugs, and INH. Topical treatment with VAA is indicated in every variety of true acne; VAA is helpful in acneiform dermatoses with secondary comedo formation, as for instance in steroid acne. Very satisfying results can be achieve with this regimen.