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A direct comparison of American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), Finnish Medical Society Duodecim (FMSD), and Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI) recommendations for the management of acne is provided in the tables below. All three organizations rank the level of evidence for each major recommendation.
The FMSD guideline updates its 2006 recommendations, and the ICSI guideline updates its 2003 recommendations.
The ICSI guideline is somewhat broader in scope than the AAD and FMSD guidelines. In addition to addressing management of acne, the ICSI guideline also provides assessment and education recommendations. These topics, however, are beyond the scope of this synthesis.
The tables below provide a side-by-side comparison of key attributes of each guideline, including specific interventions and practices that are addressed. The language used in these tables, particularly that which is used in Table 4, Table 5 and Table 6, is in most cases taken verbatim from the original guidelines:
A summary discussion of the areas of agreement and areas of differences among the guidelines is presented following the content comparison tables.
Abbreviations:
TABLE 3: COMPARISON OF METHODOLOGY | |
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Methods Used to Collect/Select the Evidence | |
AAD (2007) |
The following evidence report is available: Guidelines of care for acne vulgaris management. Technical report. American Academy of Dermatology Association. 2007. 69 p. Electronic copies: Not available at this time. Print copies: Available from the AAD, PO Box 4014, Schaumburg, IL 60168-4014, Phone: (847) 330-0230 ext. 333; Fax: (847) 330-1120; Web site: www.aad.org. Described Process: A work group of recognized experts was convened to determine the audience for the guidelines, define the scope of the guidelines, and identify nine clinical questions to structure the primary issues in diagnosis and management. An evidence-based model was used and some evidence was obtained by a vendor using a search of MEDLINE and EMBASE databases spanning the years 1970 through 2006. Only English-language publications were reviewed. Number of Source Documents: Not stated Number of References: 180 |
FMSD (2007) |
Described Process: The evidence reviewed was collected from the Cochrane database of systematic reviews and the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effectiveness (DARE). In addition, the Cochrane Library and medical journals were searched specifically for original publications. Number of Source Documents: Not stated Number of References: 5 |
ICSI (2006) |
Described Process: Not stated Number of Source Documents: Not stated Number of References: 53 |
Methods Used to Assess the Quality and Strength of the Evidence | |
AAD (2007) |
Expert Consensus (Committee) Weighting According to a Rating Scheme (Scheme Given — refer to Table 6) |
FMSD (2007) |
Weighting According to a Rating Scheme (Scheme Given — refer to Table 6) |
ICSI (2006) |
Weighting According to a Rating Scheme (Scheme Given — refer to Table 6) Described Process: Key conclusions (as determined by the work group) are supported by a conclusion grading worksheet that summarizes the important studies pertaining to the conclusion. Individual studies are classed according to the system presented below, and are designated as positive, negative, or neutral to reflect the study quality. Refer to Table 6 for rating schemes. |
Methods Used to Analyze the Evidence | |
AAD (2007) |
Systematic Review with Evidence Tables Described Process: The available evidence was evaluated using a unified system called the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT) developed by editors of the US family medicine and primary care journals (i.e., American Family Physician, Family Medicine, Journal of Family Practice, and BMJ-USA). This strategy was supported by a decision of the Clinical Guidelines Task Force in 2005 with some minor modifications for a consistent approach to rating the strength of the evidence of scientific studies. For each intervention within the Clinical Questions, an effort was made to identify and present the best evidence regarding its use in the treatment of acne. Studies of clinical measurements of outcome were considered for analysis whether or not the clinical outcome was the primary outcome measured. |
FMSD (2007) |
Systematic Review Described Process: Not stated |
ICSI (2006) |
Systematic Review with Evidence Tables Described Process: Not stated |
Methods Used to Formulate the Recommendations | |
AAD (2007) |
Expert Consensus Described Process: Clinical recommendations were developed on the best available evidence tabled in the guidelines and explained further in the companion document Guideline of Care for Acne Vulgaris Management, Technical Report. |
FMSD (2007) |
Not stated |
ICSI (2006) |
Not stated |
Outcomes | |
AAD (2007) |
|
FMSD (2007) |
|
ICSI (2006) |
|
Financial Disclosures/Conflicts of Interest | |
AAD (2007) |
Each of the following Work Group Members have served as a consultant, received research support or clinical research grants from the following companies: Dr. Strauss was a consultant and investigator for Roche Laboratories receiving honoraria and grants, and a consultant for Medicis receiving honoraria. Dr. Krowchuk has no relevant conflicts of interest to disclose. Dr. Leyden was a consultant for Stiefel and SkinMedica, receiving honoraria; served on the Advisory Board and was a consultant for Galderma and Obaj, receiving honoraria; was on the Advisory Board and was a consultant and investigator for Connetics, Collagenex, Allergan, and Medicis, receiving honoraria. Dr. Lucky was an investigator for Connetics, Dow, Galderma, Healthpoint, Johnson & Johnson, QLT, and Stiefel, receiving grants and an investigator and consultant for Berlex receiving grants and honoraria. Dr. Shalita was a consultant, investigator, stockholder, and speaker for Allergan, receiving grants and honoraria; a consultant for Bradley/Doak receiving honoraria; served on the Advisory Board and was a consultant for Collagenex, receiving honoraria; was a consultant and investigator for Connetics receiving grants and honoraria; an Advisory Board member, consultant, investigator, and speaker for Galderma receiving grants and honoraria; a consultant, speaker, and stockholder for Medicis receiving honoraria; an Advisory Board member for Ranbaxy receiving honoraria; and a consultant, investigator, and speaker for Stiefel, receiving grants and honoraria. Dr. Siegfried was an investigator for Atrix receiving salary. Dr. Thiboutot served on the Advisory Board and was an investigator and speaker for Allergan and Galderma, receiving honoraria; was on the Advisory Board and was a consultant and investigator for Collagenex receiving honoraria; was on the Advisory Board and was an investigator for Connetics, Dermik, and QLT, receiving honoraria; and was a consultant, investigator, and speaker for Intendis, receiving honoraria. Dr. Van Voorhees served on the Advisory Board and was an investigator and speaker for Amgen, receiving grants and honoraria; was an investigator for Astellas, Bristol Myers Squibb, and GlaxoSmithKline, receiving grants; was an Advisory Board Member and investigator for Genentech and Warner Chilcott, receiving grants and honoraria; was on the Advisory Board for Centocor receiving honoraria; was a speaker for Connetics receiving honoraria; and was a stockholder of Merck, owning stock and stock options. Dr. Beutner was an employee of Anacor receiving salary and stock options and a stockholder of Dow Pharmaceutical Sciences receiving stock. Ms. Sieck and Dr. Bhushan have no relevant conflicts of interest to disclose. |
FMSD (2007) |
None stated |
ICSI (2006) |
No work group members have potential conflicts of interest to disclose. ICSI's conflict of interest policy and procedures are available for review on ICSI's website at www.icsi.org. |
TABLE 4: COMPARISON OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ACNE | |
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Topical Treatments | |
AAD (2007) |
Topical Therapy
Recommendations Retinoids Strength of recommendation = A. Level of evidence = I. References: Christiansen et al., 1974, Chalker et al., 1987; Shalita et al., 1999; Lucky et al., 1998 Benzoyl Peroxide Strength of recommendation = A. Level of evidence = I. References: Belknap, 1979; Schutte, Cunliffe, & Forster, 1982; Smith et al., 1980; Mills et al., 1986 Antibiotics Strength of recommendation = A. Level of evidence = I. References: Bernstein & Shalita, 1980; Jones & Crumley, 1981; Prince et al., 1981; Lesher et al., 1985; Pochi et al., 1988; Dobson & Belknap, 1980; Mills et al., 2002; Leyden et al., 1987; Becker et al., 1981 Other Agents Strength of recommendation = A. Level of evidence = I. References: Zouboulis et al., 2000; Chalker et al., 1983; Tschen et al., 2001; Lookingbill et al., 1997; Hjorth & Graupe, 1989 |
FMSD (2007) |
Local Treatment
|
ICSI (2006) |
Clinical Highlights and Recommendations
Topical Treatment of Acne An example of treatment for mild acne may include benzoyl peroxide, a topical antibiotic or a combination product one to two times daily; or a topical retinoid once daily in addition to the above. See tables in Annotation 5 of the original guideline document for description of medications. Over-the-counter Topical Products A wide variety of over-the-counter (OTC) topical products are available to the patient for self-treatment of acne. A complete listing is beyond the scope of this publication. The most common ingredient in OTC products is benzoyl peroxide in concentrations up to 10%*. Salicylic acid in concentrations of 0.5% to 2% is a keratolytic found in many OTC acne products. Products may also contain glycolic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid), sulfur, or resorcinol. When evaluating a new patient, it is helpful to know which products they may have tried. * Many of the expensive acne systems advertised contain benzoyl peroxide and offer no advantages over commercial products. Benzoyl Peroxide Benzoyl Peroxide is available without a prescription in products such as Clearasil® and by prescription in the products listed below (refer to the original guideline document). It is also available in combination with antibiotics (see Topical Antibiotics table in the original guideline document.)
Topical Retinoids for Acne Topical retinoids (see table in the original guideline document for a description of the topical retinoids listed below) increase the turnover of follicular epithelial cells, promote drainage of comedones and inhibit new comedone (blackhead, whitehead) formation. Topical retinoids are generally applied in the evening.
Azelaic Acid Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring decarboxylic acid which has been shown to be effective in reducing both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions.
Topical Antibiotics for Acne Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) is an anaerobic bacterium present within the pilosebaceous follicles. It is thought that this microorganism plays a role in acne-associated inflammation. The antibiotics used to treat acne have been shown to reduce colonization of P.acnes and may also possess direct anti-inflammatory effects. In vitro resistance of P.acnes to commonly used antibiotics has been increasing but the clinical significance of this is uncertain. However, it has been recommended that antibiotics be used with either topical retinoids or benzoyl peroxide. Single Drug Products
Combination Products
Note: Refer to the original guideline document for tables providing a description of the topical treatments discussed here. Medications are listed alphabetically. Brand names are included for reference only and are not meant to be all inclusive. |
Oral Antibiotics | |
AAD (2007) |
Systemic Antibiotics
Recommendations Tetracyclines Strength of recommendation = A. Level of evidence = I. References: Smith, Chalker, & Wehr, 1976; Gratton et al., 1982; Blaney & Cook, 1976; Miller et al., 1996 Macrolides Strength of recommendation = A. Level of evidence = I. References: Skidmore et al., 2003; Gammon et al., 1986; Christian & Krueger, 1975; Stoughton et al., 1980 Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole Strength of recommendation = A. Level of evidence = I. References: Hersle, 1972 |
FMSD (2007) |
Systemic Treatment
|
ICSI (2006) |
Topical Treatment and Oral Antibiotics for Acne An example for moderate/severe acne may include examples listed in annotation 5a (of the original guideline document) with the addition of an oral antibiotic while continuing with the topical treatment. (See tables in annotation 5b of the original guideline document for description of products listed below) First Line Antibiotics
Second Line Antibiotics
Other antibiotics such as azithromycin are being used in acne but studies are preliminary and concrete recommendations regarding their use cannot be made at this time. Supporting evidence is of classes: A, C, D, R |
Oral Retinoids (isotretinoin) | |
AAD (2007) |
Isotretinoin
Recommendations Isotretinoin Strength of recommendation = A. Level of evidence = I. References: Peck et al., 1982; Lehucher-Ceyrac & Weber-Buisset, 1993; Goulden et al., 1997; Strauss et al., "A randomized trial," 2001; McElwee et al., 1991; Strauss et al., "Safety," 2001; Dai, LaBraico, & Stern, 1992; Goldsmith et al., 2004; Rubinow et al., 1987 |
FMSD (2007) |
Local Treatment
Indications for Specialist Consultation
|
ICSI (2006) |
Clinical Highlights and Recommendations
Oral Retinoids Isotretinoin is the only oral retinoid approved for use in acne and is a well established teratogen. Although causality has not been determined for depression and suicide this is an ongoing concern. In view of these factors its use is highly regulated by the FDA. Only providers registered with the iPLEDGE program may prescribe Isotretinoin. For information about this program conduct an internet search using: iPLEDGE program. This program is scheduled to start March 1, 2006 and replaces the existing System to Manage Accutane Related Teratogenicity (S.M.A.R.T.) program. |
Adjunctive Therapies | |
AAD (2007) |
Hormonal Agents
Recommendations Contraceptive Agents Strength of recommendation = A. Level of evidence = I. References: Lucky et al., 1997; Olson, Lippman, & Robisch, 1998; Thiboutot et al., 2001; Leyden et al., 2002 Spironolactone Strength of recommendation = B. Level of evidence = II. References: Muhlemann et al., 1986 Antiandrogens Strength of recommendation = B. Level of evidence = II. References: Greenwood et al., 1985; Miller et al., 1986 Oral Corticosteroids Strength of recommendation = B. Level of evidence = II. References: Nader et al., 1984 Miscellaneous Therapy
Recommendations Intralesional Steroids Strength of recommendation = C. Level of evidence = III. References: Levine & Rasmussen, 1983; Potter, 1971 Chemical Peels Strength of recommendation = C. Level of evidence = III. References: Kim et al., 1999; Wang et al., 1997; Grimes, 1999 Comedo Removal Strength of recommendation = C. Level of evidence = III. References: Pepall, Cosgrove, & Cunliffe, 1991 Complementary Therapy
Recommendations Herbal Agents Strength of recommendation = B. Level of evidence = II. References: Bassett, Pannowitz, & Barnetson, 1990; Paranjpe & Kulkarni, 1995; Laala et al., 2001 Psychological Approaches Strength of recommendation = C. Level of evidence = III. References: Ellerbroek, 1973 Hypnosis/Biofeedback Strength of recommendation = B. Level of evidence = II. References: Hughes et al., 1983 Dietary Restriction
Recommendation Effect of Diet Strength of recommendation = B. Level of evidence = II. References: Bett, Morland, & Yudkin, 1967; Fulton, Plewig, & Kligman, 1969 |
FMSD (2007) |
Light Therapy, Cyst Injections, Hormonal Treatment Local Treatment
Systemic Treatment
|
ICSI (2006) |
Consider Adjunctive Therapy Oral Contraceptives The addition of combination oral contraceptives has been shown to be effective in the treatment of acne. [Conclusion Grade I: See Conclusion Grading Worksheet C — Annotation #9 (Oral Contraceptives)] in the original guideline document Treatment with a combined oral contraceptive (estrogen and progestin) is an alternative for women who fail conventional acne therapies. Oral contraceptives are effective for the treatment of acne due to their androgen modulating properties. It is the estrogen component of combined oral contraceptives that reduces androgen production and decreases the amount of free and active testosterone by increasing the production of sex hormone binding globulin. Progestin-only oral contraceptives are not effective and may worsen acne. Responses may not be seen for 3 to 6 months, with some patients showing a flare of symptoms during early cycles. Although some progestins have exhibited androgenic properties during in vitro and animal studies, all combination oral contraceptives have antiandrogenic properties due to the estrogen component. To ensure adherence with therapy, the ideal product is one that has the lowest incidence of adverse effects for a particular patient. Products with FDA indications for acne include Estrostep® and Ortho Tri-cyclen®. Spironolactone Spironolactone is a medication primarily used in the treatment of hypertension. Due to its antiandrogenic effect, it has occasionally been used to treat adult onset acne in women when other treatments have been ineffective. It is the effects of testosterone that are felt to be a contributing factor to the development of acne in adult females. The drug acts by blocking the effects of testosterone on the oil glands and hair follicles of the female patient The result is a reduction in oil production that may lead to improvement of their acne. The optimal dosage varies, but ranges from 50 mg to 200 mg daily. Response may take two to three months*. The drug should not be used in pregnancy. Women of child-bearing age should use birth control methods while taking the medication. Side effects are rare, usually related to menstrual irregularity, mild gastrointestinal (GI) upset, or headache. The medication may be taken for one to two years with periodic rest periods. * Spironolactone can cause decreased sodium and increased potassium. Levels should be initially measured and carefully monitored at appropriate intervals. Intra-lesional Injections There are rare circumstances in which you may consider injecting large acne cysts with a corticosteroid for short-term cosmetic improvement. Each injection carries a risk of causing skin atrophy. Repeated injections are not recommended. The concentration of Triamcinolone varies from 2 to 10 mg/cc. The stock 10-, 25- or 40- mg/mL steroid suspension should be diluted with lidocaine and only enough injected through a 1- mL syringe with a 27- or 30- gauge needle to distend the cyst slightly (usually 0.025 mL to 0.1 mL). Light Therapy There continue to be numerous studies about light treatment for acne, including blue light and photodynamic therapy with and without pretreatment with topical medications. At this time, the evidence is inadequate to make a recommendation about the efficacy and safety of these treatments. |
Follow-Up | |
AAD (2007) |
No recommendations offered. |
FMSD (2007) |
Indications for Specialist Consultation
Acne Scars
|
ICSI (2006) |
Clinical Highlights and Recommendations
Follow-Up 6-12 Weeks/Satisfactory Response? There is no clear evidence to support a specific duration of any treatment for acne. However, clinical experience and clinical trials suggest that a minimum treatment period of 6-12 weeks is needed before an improvement will be noted in most patients. Assess Outcome and Adherence Asking non-threatening, open-ended questions during patient interviews can be a useful method of assessing medication adherence. The interview should include probes for factors that contribute to non-adherence including adverse reactions, misunderstandings of asymptomatic or chronic disease treatment, depression, cognitive impairment, complex dosing regimens, and financial constraints. Supporting evidence is of class: R Modify Treatment Plan Consider Different/Additional Medications It may be necessary to switch to a different class of topical acne medication. For example: if the patient is on a benzoyl peroxide product or a combination product and is not responding, consider switching to a once daily topical retinoid, and a once daily topical anti-infective. For moderate to severe acne, consider adding an oral antibiotic or switching the current oral antibiotic. Selection is based on patient specific factors. Consider Dermatology Referral Dermatologists treat all forms of acne, particularly severe cases. For those patients with severe inflammatory acne that has not improved with previously described medications, a retinoid, isotretinoin (Accutane), may be considered. Dermatologists may be helpful to guide you at any point of the algorithm. Supporting evidence is of classes: A, R For most current information regarding Isotretinoin: http://www.fda.gov/cdec/drug/infopage/accutane/default.htm Maintenance If stable on current topicals, continue treatment indefinitely. If stable on topical and systemic antibiotics, after clearance is achieved for 1 to 3 months, consider tapering oral antibiotics and continue topicals indefinitely. |
Selected Supporting References Note from NGC: Bolded references are cited in more than one guideline. Refer to the original guideline documents for a complete listing of supporting references. |
|
AAD (2007) |
Bassett IB, Pannowitz DL, Barnetson RS. A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoylperoxide in the treatment of acne. Med J Aust 1990;153:455-8. Becker LE, Bergstresser PR, Whiting DA, Clendenning WE, Dobson RL, Jordan WP, et al. Topical clindamycin therapy for acne vulgaris. A cooperative clinical study. Arch Dermatol 1981;117:482-5. Belknap BS. Treatment of acne with 5% benzoyl peroxide gel or 0.05% retinoic acid cream. Cutis 1979;23:856-9. Bernstein JE, Shalita AR. Topically applied erythromycin in inflammatory acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 1980;2: 318-21. Bett DG, Morland J, Yudkin J. Sugar consumption in acne vulgaris and seborrhoeic dermatitis. Br Med J 1967;3: 153-5. Blaney DJ, Cook CH. Topical use of tetracycline in the treatment of acne: a double-blind study comparing topical and oral tetracycline therapy and placebo. Arch Dermatol 1976;112:971-3. Chalker DK, Lesher JL Jr, Smith JG Jr, Klauda HC, Pochi PE, Jacoby WS, et al. Efficacy of topical isotretinoin 0.05% gel in acne vulgaris: results of a multicenter, doubleblind investigation. J Am Acad Dermatol 1987;17:251-4. Chalker DK, Shalita A, Smith JG Jr, Swann RW. A double-blind study of the effectiveness of a 3% erythromycin and 5% benzoyl peroxide combination in the treatment of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 1983;9:933-6. Christian GL, Krueger GG. Clindamycin vs placebo as adjunctive therapy in moderately severe acne. Arch Dermatol 1975; 111:997-1000. Christiansen JV, Gadborg E, Ludvigsen K, Meier CH, Norholm A, Pedersen D, et al. Topical tretinoin, vitamin A acid (Airol) in acne vulgaris. A controlled clinical trial. Dermatologica 1974; 148:82-9. Dai WS, LaBraico JM, Stern RS. Epidemiology of isotretinoin exposure during pregnancy. J Am Acad Dermatol 1992;26: 599-606. Dobson RL, Belknap BS. Topical erythromycin solution in acne. Results of a multiclinic trial. J Am Acad Dermatol 1980;3:478-82. Ellerbroek WC. Hypotheses toward a unified field theory of human behavior with clinical application to acne vulgaris. Perspect Biol Med 1973;16:240-62. Fulton JE Jr, Plewig G, Kligman AM. Effect of chocolate on acne vulgaris. JAMA 1969;210:2071-4. Gammon WR, Meyer C, Lantis S, Shenefelt P, Reizner G, Cripps DJ. Comparative efficacy of oral erythromycin versus oral tetracycline in the treatment of acne vulgaris. A doubleblind study. J Am Acad Dermatol 1986;14:183-6. Goldsmith LA, Bolognia JL, Callen JP, Chen SC, Feldman SR, Lim HW, et al. American Academy of Dermatology Consensus Conference on the safe and optimal use of isotretinoin: summary and recommendations. J Am Acad Dermatol 2004;50:900-6. Erratum in J Am Acad Dermatol 2004;51:348. Goulden V, Clark SM, McGeown C, Cunliffe WJ. Treatment of acne with intermittent isotretinoin. Br J Dermatol 1997;137: 106-8. Gratton D, Raymond GP, Guertin-Larochelle S, Maddin SW, Leneck CM, Warner J, et al. Topical clindamycin versus systemic tetracycline in the treatment of acne. Results of a multiclinic trial. J Am Acad Dermatol 1982;7:50-3. Greenwood R, Brummitt L, Burke B, Cunliffe WJ. Acne: double blind clinical and laboratory trial of tetracycline, oestrogencyproterone acetate, and combined treatment. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1985;291:1231-5. Grimes PE. The safety and efficacy of salicylic acid chemical peels in darker racial-ethnic groups. Dermatol Surg 1999;25: 18-22. Hersle K. Trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole in acne vulgaris. A double-blind study. Dermatologica 1972;145:187-91. Hjorth N, Graupe K. Azelaic acid for the treatment of acne. A clinical comparison with oral tetracycline. Acta Derm Venereol Suppl (Stockh) 1989;143:45-8. Hughes H, Brown BW, Lawlis GF, Fulton JE Jr. Treatment of acne vulgaris by biofeedback relaxation and cognitive imagery. J Psychosom Res 1983;27:185-91. Jones EL, Crumley AF. Topical erythromycin vs blank vehicle in a multiclinic acne study. Arch Dermatol 1981;117:551-3. 54. Prince RA, Busch DA, Hepler CD, Feldick HG. Clinical trial of topical erythromycin in inflammatory acne. Drug Intell Clin Pharm 1981;15:372-6. Kim SW, Moon SE, Kim JA, Eun HC. Glycolic acid versus Jessner�s solution: which is better for facial acne patients? A randomized prospective clinical trial of split-face model therapy. Dermatol Surg 1999;25:270-3. Lalla JK, Nandedkar SY, Paranjape MH, Talreja NB. Clinical trials of ayurvedic formulations in the treatment of acne vulgaris. J Ethnopharmacol 2001;78:99-102. Lehucher-Ceyrac D, Weber-Buisset MJ. Isotretinoin and acne in practice: a prospective analysis of 188 cases over 9 years. Dermatology 1993;186:123-8. Lesher JL Jr, Chalker DK, Smith JG Jr, Guenther LC, Ellis CN, Voorhees JJ, et al. An evaluation of a 2% erythromycinointment in the topical therapy of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 1985;12:526-31. Levine RM, Rasmussen JE. Intralesional corticosteroids in the treatment of nodulocystic acne. Arch Dermatol 1983;119: 480-1. Leyden JJ, Shalita AR, Saatjian GD, Sefton J. Erythromycin 2% gel in comparison with clindamycin phosphate 1% solution in acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 1987;16:822-7. Leyden J, Shalita A, Hordinsky M, Swinyer L, Stanczyk FZ, Weber ME. Efficacy of a low-dose oral contraceptive containing 20 microg of ethinyl estradiol and 100 microg of levonorgestrel for the treatment of moderate acne: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial. J Am Acad Dermatol 2002;47:399-409. Lookingbill DP, Chalker DK, Lindholm JS, Katz HI, Kempers SE, Huerter CJ, et al. Treatment of acne with a combination clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide gel compared with clindamycin gel, benzoyl peroxide gel and vehicle gel: combined results of two double-blind investigations. J Am Acad Dermatol 1997;37:590-5. Lucky AW, Cullen SI, Jarratt MT, Quigley JW. Comparative efficacy and safety of two 0.025% tretinoin gels: results from a multicenter double-blind, parallel study. J Am Acad Dermatol 1998;38:S17-23. Lucky AW, Henderson TA, Olson WH, Robisch DM, Lebwohl M, Swinyer LJ. Effectiveness of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol in treating moderate acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 1997;37:746-54. McElwee NE, Schumacher MC, Johnson SC, Weir TW, Greene SL, Scotvold MJ, et al. An observational study of isotretinoin recipients treated for acne in a health maintenance organization. Arch Dermatol 1991;127:341-6. Miller YW, Eady EA, Lacey RW, Cove JH, Joanes DN, Cunliffe WJ. Sequential antibiotic therapy for acne promotes the carriage of resistant staphylococci on the skin of contacts. J Antimicrob Chemother 1996;38:829-37. Miller JA, Wojnarowska FT, Dowd PM, Ashton RE, O'Brien TJ, Griffiths WA, et al. Anti-androgen treatment in women with acne: a controlled trial. Br J Dermatol 1986;114:705-16. Mills O Jr, Thornsberry C, Cardin CW, Smiles KA, Leyden JJ. Bacterial resistance and therapeutic outcome following three months of topical acne therapy with 2% erythromycin gel versus its vehicle. Acta Derm Venereol 2002; 82:260-5. Mills OH Jr, Kligman AM, Pochi P, Comite H. Comparing 2.5%, 5%, and 10% benzoyl peroxide on inflammatory acne vulgaris. Int J Dermatol 1986;25:664-7. Muhlemann MF, Carter GD, Cream JJ, Wise P. Oral spironolactone: an effective treatment for acne vulgaris in women. Br J Dermatol 1986;115:227-32. Nader S, Rodriguez-Rigau LJ, Smith KD, Steinberger E. Acne and hyperandrogenism: impact of lowering androgen levels with glucocorticoid treatment. J Am Acad Dermatol 1984; 11:256-9. Olson WH, Lippman JS, Robisch DM. The duration of response to norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Int J Fertil Womens Med 1998;43: 286-90. Paranjpe P, Kulkarni PH. Comparative efficacy of four Ayurvedic formulations in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a double-blind randomised placebo-controlled clinical evaluation. J Ethnopharmacol 1995;49:127-32. Peck GL, Olsen TG, Butkus D, Pandya M, Arnaud-Battandier J, Gross EG, et al. Isotretinoin versus placebo in the treatment of cystic acne. A randomized double-blind study. J Am Acad Dermatol 1982;6:735-45. Pepall LM, Cosgrove MP, Cunliffe WJ. Ablation of whiteheads by cautery under topical anaesthesia. Br J Dermatol 1991;125: 256-9. Pochi PE, Bagatell FK, Ellis CN, Stoughton RB, Whitmore CG, Saatjian GD, et al. Erythromycin 2 percent gel in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Cutis 1988;41:132-6. Potter RA. Intralesional triamcinolone and adrenal suppression in acne vulgaris. J Invest Dermatol 1971;57: 364-70. Prince RA, Busch DA, Hepler CD, Feldick HG. Clinical trial of topical erythromycin in inflammatory acne. Drug Intell Clin Pharm 1981;15:372-6. Rubinow DR, Peck GL, Squillace KM, Gantt GG. Reduced anxiety and depression in cystic acne patients after successful treatment with oral isotretinoin. J Am Acad Dermatol 1987;17:25-32. Schutte H, Cunliffe WJ, Forster RA. The short-term effects of benzoyl peroxide lotion on the resolution of inflamed acne lesions. Br J Dermatol 1982;106:91-4. Shalita AR, Chalker DK, Griffith RF, Herbert AA, Hickman JG, Maloney JM, et al. Tazarotene gel is safe and effective in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a multicenter, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study. Cutis 1999;63:349-54. Skidmore R, Kovach R, Walker C, Thomas J, Bradshaw M, Leyden J, et al. Effects of subantimicrobial-dose doxycycline in the treatment of moderate acne. Arch Dermatol 2003; 139:459-64. Smith JG Jr, Chalker DK, Wehr RF. The effectiveness of topical and oral tetracycline for acne. South Med J 1976;69: 695-7. Smith EB, Padilla RS, McCabe JM, Becker LE. Benzoyl peroxide lotion (20 percent) in acne. Cutis 1980;25:90-2. Stoughton RB, Cornell RC, Gange RW, Walter JF. Doubleblind comparison of topical 1 percent clindamycin phosphate (Cleocin T) and oral tetracycline 500 mg/day in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Cutis 1980;26:424-5, 429. Strauss JS, Leyden JJ, Lucky AW, Lookingbill DP, Drake LA, Hanifin JM, et al. A randomized trial of the efficacy of a new micronized formulation versus a standard formulation of isotretinoin in patients with severe recalcitrant nodular acne. J Am Acad Dermatol 2001;45:187-95. Strauss JS, Leyden JJ, Lucky AW, Lookingbill DP, Drake LA, Hanifin JM, et al. Safety of a new micronized formulation of isotretinoin in patients with severe recalcitrant nodular acne: A randomized trial comparing micronized isotretinoin with standard isotretinoin. J Am Acad Dermatol 2001;45: 196-207. Thiboutot D, Archer DF, Lemay A, Washenik K, Roberts J, Harrison DD. A randomized, controlled trial of a low-dose contraceptive containing 20 microg of ethinyl estradiol and 100 microg of levonorgestrel for acne treatment. Fertil Steril 2001;76:461-8. Tschen EH, Katz HI, Jones TM, Monroe EW, Kraus SJ, Connolly MA, et al. A combination benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin topical gel compared with benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin phosphate, and vehicle in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Cutis 2001;67:165-9. Wang CM, Huang CL, Hu CT, Chan HL. The effect of glycolic acid on the treatment of acne in Asian skin. Dermatol Surg 1997;23:23-9. Zouboulis CC, Derumeaux L, Decroix J, Maciejewska-Udziela B, Cambazard F, Stuhlert A. A multicentre, single-blind, randomized comparison of a fixed clindamycin phosphate/tretinoin gel formulation (Velac) applied once daily and a clindamycin lotion formulation (Dalacin T) applied twice daily in the topical treatment of acne vulgaris. Br J Dermatol 2000; 143:498-505. |
---|---|
FMSD (2007) |
Farquhar C, Lee O, Toomath R, Jepson R. Spironolactone versus placebo or in combination with steroids for hirsutism and/or acne. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2003;(4):CD000194. Garner SE, Eady EA, Popescu C, Newton J, Li WA. Minocycline for acne vulgaris: efficacy and safety. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2003;(1):CD002086. [143 references] PubMed Jordan R, Cummins C, Burls A. Laser resurfacing of the skin for the improvement of facial acne scarring. Birmingham: Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, University of Birmingham. West Midlands Development and Evaluation Service, Department of Public Health and Epidemiology (DPHE). DPHE Report No. 11. 1998. 1- 51p. Purdy S. What are the effects of topical treatments in people with acne vulgaris?. Clin Evid 2005;13:2042-59. The Health Technology Assessment Database, Database no: HTA-998502. In: The Cochrane Library [database online]. Issue 1. Oxford: Update Software; 2001 |
ICSI (2006) |
Basler RS. Clindamycin for tetracycline-resistant acne. Cutis 1980;25:527-28. (Class D) Bershad S, Singer GK, Parente JE, et al. Successful treatment of acne vulgaris using a new method: results of a randomized vehicle-controlled trial of short-contact therapy with 0.1% tazarotene gel. Arch Dermatol 2002;138:481-89. (Class A) Bershad SV. The modern age of acne therapy: a review of current treatment options. Mount Sinai J Med 2001;68:279-86. (Class R) Bleeker J. Tolerance and efficacy of erythromycin stearate tablets versus enteric-coated erythromycin base capsules in the treatment of patients with acne vulgaris. J Int Med Res 1983;11:38-41. (Class A) Bleeker J, Hellgren L, Vincent J. Effect of systemic erytrhomycin stearate on the inflammatory lesions and skin surface fatty acids in acne vulgaris. Dermatologica 1981;162:342-49. (Class A) Christian GL, Krueger GG. Clindamycin vs placebo as adjunctive therapy in moderately severe acne. Arch Dermatol 1975;111:997-1000. (Class C) Doggrell SA, Brown L. The spironolactone renaissance. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2001;10:943-54. (Class R) Drake LA, Ceilley RI, Cornelison RL, et al. Guidelines of care for acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 1989;22:676-80. (Class R) Gammon WR, Meyer C, Lantis S, et al. Comparative efficacy of oral erythromycin versus oral tetracycline in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a double-blind study. J Am Acad Dermatol 1986;14:183-86. (Class A) Graupe K, Cunliffe WJ, Gollnick HP, Zaumseil RP. Efficacy and safety of topical azelaic acid (20 percent cream): an overview of results from European clinical trials and experimental reports. Cutis 1996;57:20-35. (Class R) Harcup JW, Cooper J. The treatment of acne vulgaris in general practice. A double-blind assessment of co-trimoxazole and tetracycline. Practitioner 1980;224:747-50. (Class A) Hersle K. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in acne vulgaris. A double-blind study. Dermatologica 1972;145:187-91. (Class C) Hubbell CG, Hobbs ER, Rist T, White JW Jr. Efficacy of minocycline compared with tetracycline in treatment of acne vulgaris. Arch Dermatol 1982;118:989-92. (Class A) Hughes BR, Norris JFB, Cunliffe WJ. A double-blind evaluation of topical isotretinoin 0.05%, benzoyl peroxide gel 5% and placebo in patients with acne. Clin and Experimental Dermatol 1992;17:165-68. (Class A) Johnson BA, Nunley JR. Use of systemic agents in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Am Fam Phys 2000;15:1823-30, 35-36. (Class R) Koulianos G. Treatment of acne with oral contraceptives: Criteria for pill selection. Cutis 2000;66:281-86. (Class R) Lesher JL, Chalker DK, Smith JG, et al. An evaluation of a 2% erythromycin ointment in the topical therapy of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 1985;12:526-31. (Class A) Leyden JJ. Current issues in antimicrobial therapy for the treatment of acne. JEADV 2001;15:51-55.(Class R) Leyden JJ. Therapy of acne vulgaris. N Engl J Med 1997;336:1156-62. (Class R) Lookingbill DP, Chalker DK, Lindholm JS, et al. Treatment of acne with a combination clindamycin/ benzoyl peroxide gel compared with clindamycin gel, benzoyl peroxide gel and vehicle gel: combined results of two double-blind investigations. Am Acad of Dermatol 1997;37:590-95. (Class A) Lucky AW, Cullen SI, Funicella T, et al. Double-blind, vehicle-controlled, multicenter comparison of two 0.025% tretinoin creams in patients with acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 1998;38:S24-30. (Class A) Lucky AW, Henderson TA, Olson WH, et al. Effectiveness of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol in treating moderate acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 1997;37:746-54. (Class A) Mancini AJ. Acne vulgaris: a treatment update. Contemporary Pediatrics 2000;12:122. (Class R) Nichols-English G, Poirier S. Optimizing adherence to pharmaceutical care plans. J Am Pharm Assoc 2000;40:475-85. (Class R) Panzer JD, Poche W, Meek TJ, Derbes VJ, Atkinson W. Acne treatment: a comparative efficacy trial of clindamycin and tetracycline. Cutis 1977;19:109-11. (Class A) Redmond GP, Olson WH, Lippman JS, et al. Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Obstet Gynecol 1997;89:615-22. (Class A) Rosen MP, Breitkopf DM, Nagamani M. A randomized controlled trial of second- versus third-generation oral contraceptives in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003;188:1158-60. (Class A) Shalita A, Weiss JS, Chalker DK, et al. A comparison of the efficacy and safety of adapalene gel 0.1% and tretinoin gel 0.025% in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a multicenter trial. J Am Acad Dermatol 1996;34:482-85. (Class A) Thiboutot D, Archer DF, Lemay A, et al. A randomized, controlled trial of a low-dose contraceptive containing 20 micrrograms of ethinyl estradiol and 100 micrrograms of levonorgestrel for acne treatment. Fertility and Sterility 2001;76:461-68. (Class A) Webster GF. Acne Vulgaris. BMJ 2002;325:475-79. (Class R) Worret I, Arp W, Zahradnik HP, et al. Acne resolution rates: results of a single-blind, randomized, controlled, parallel phase III trial with EE/CMA (belara®) and EE/LNG (microgynon®). Dermatology 2001;203:38-44. (Class A) |
TABLE 5: BENEFITS AND HARMS | |
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Benefits | |
AAD (2007) |
Appropriate management of acne vulgaris |
FMSD (2007) |
Effective treatment of acne |
ICSI (2006) |
Effective treatment of acne can decrease such negative effects of acne as decreased self-esteem, social withdrawal, anger, conduct disorders, and decreased employability. Patient perception of improvement is the best measure of successful treatment. |
Harms | AAD (2007) |
Topical Antibiotics
Oral Antibiotics
Hormonal Agents
Isotretinoin
Intralesional Steroids
|
FMSD (2007) |
Adverse Effects of Medication
|
ICSI (2006) |
See the appropriate tables in the original guideline document for information on adverse effects of benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, azelaic acid, topical antibiotics, combination products, and first- and second-line oral antibiotics. Spironolactone
Oral Retinoids
Intra-lesional Injections
|
TABLE 6: EVIDENCE RATING SCHEMES | |
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AAD (2007) |
Levels of Evidence
Strength of Recommendations
|
FMSD (2007) |
Classification of the Quality of Evidence
|
ICSI (2006) |
Conclusion Grades: Grade I: The evidence consists of results from studies of strong design for answering the question addressed. The results are both clinically important and consistent with minor exceptions at most. The results are free of any significant doubts about generalizability, bias, and flaws in research design. Studies with negative results have sufficiently large samples to have adequate statistical power. Grade II: The evidence consists of results from studies of strong design for answering the question addressed, but there is some uncertainty attached to the conclusion because of inconsistencies among the results from the studies or because of minor doubts about generalizability, bias, research design flaws, or adequacy of sample size. Alternatively, the evidence consists solely of results from weaker designs for the question addressed, but the results have been confirmed in separate studies and are consistent with minor exceptions at most. Grade III: The evidence consists of results from studies of strong design for answering the question addressed, but there is substantial uncertainty attached to the conclusion because of inconsistencies among the results of different studies or because of serious doubts about generalizability, bias, design flaws, or adequacy of sample size. Alternatively, the evidence consists solely of results from a limited number of studies of weak design for answering the question addressed. Grade Not Assignable: There is no evidence available that directly supports or refutes the conclusion. Study Quality Designations: The quality of the primary research reports and systematic reviews are designated in the following ways on the conclusion grading worksheets: Positive: indicates that the report or review has clearly addressed issues of inclusion/exclusion, bias, generalizability, and data collection and analysis. Negative: indicates that these issues (inclusion/exclusion, bias, generalizability, and data collection and analysis) have not been adequately addressed. Neutral: indicates that the report or review is neither exceptionally strong nor exceptionally weak. Not Applicable: indicates that the report is not a primary reference or a systematic review and therefore the quality has not been assessed. Classes of Research Reports:
|
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the Finnish Medical Society Duodecim (FMSD), and the Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI) present recommendations for management of acne and provide explicit reasoning behind their judgments. All three organizations rank the level of evidence for each major recommendation.
The guidelines differ somewhat in scope. While AAD and FMSD address primarily management of acne, ICSI also provides assessment and patient education recommendations. These topics, however, are beyond the scope of this synthesis. The FMSD guideline updates its 2006 recommendations, and the ICSI guideline updates its 2003 recommendations.
All three organizations performed searches of electronic databases; FMSD also performed hand-searches of published literature (primary and secondary sources). AAD and FMSD provide relevant information about the electronic databases searched, with AAD also specifying the dates searched. The AAD search was guided by nine clinical questions developed by the workgroup, which can be found in a separately-prepared, systematic evidence report (see the "Availability of Companion Documents" field in the NGC summary of this guideline).
With regard to the review of the evidence, ICSI presents its arguments and rationale, along with references to supporting evidence, in a format corresponding to algorithm annotations. AAD and FMSD present their arguments in the form of recommendation statements, also with accompanying references to supporting evidence. AAD also includes discussion of the basis for each recommendation statement. All three groups used rating schemes to weight the quality and the strength of the evidence, and therefore denote the quality of the supporting evidence with the corresponding recommendation/algorithm annotation. In terms of methods used to analyze the evidence, FMSD performed a systematic review, and AAD and ICSI performed a systematic review with evidence tables.
All three groups provide reference lists (180 references for AAD, 5 references for FMSD, 53 for ICSI). AAD and FMSD link the evidence directly to their recommendation statements, while ICSI links the evidence directly to associated algorithm annotations. For selected recommendations, ICSI also directs the reader to Conclusion Grading Worksheets, which provide a description of studies used to draw the particular conclusion.
AAD discloses potential conflicts of interest of its workgroup members. FMSD does not state any potential financial disclosures or conflicts of interests. ICSI states that none of its work group members have any potential conflicts of interest to disclose.
Management of Acne: Comparison of Recommendations Between the FMSD and ICSI Guidelines | |
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Topical Treatments | |
AAD (2007) |
Recommends benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, and topical antibiotics. Notes that data from clinical trials indicate that azelaic acid is effective. Data for other topical therapies is limited. |
FMSD (2007) |
Recommends benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, and topical antibiotics |
ICSI (2006) |
Recommends benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, azelaic acid, and topical antibiotics |
Oral Antibiotics | |
AAD (2007) |
Recommends doxycycline and minocycline as first-line therapies, stating that they are more effective than tetracycline. Erythromycin should be reserved for patients who cannot take tetracyclines. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim alone are also effective in instances where other antibiotics cannot be used. |
FMSD (2007) |
Cites erythromycin and tetracycline as appropriate oral antibiotics |
ICSI (2006) |
Cites erythromycin, tetracycline, doxycycline, and minocycline as appropriate first-line antibiotics and clindamycin and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim as appropriate second-line antibiotics |
Oral Retinoids (isotretinoin) | |
AAD (2007) |
Recommends isotretinoin as appropriate for the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodular acne, or for lesser degrees of acne that are treatment-resistant or for the management of acne that is producing either physical or psychological scarring. Warns about its teratogenic properties, addresses iPLEDGE program. |
FMSD (2007) |
Cites isotretinoin as a possible therapy, but only in the case of ordinary treatment failure and warns about its teratogenetic properties. |
ICSI (2006) |
Cites isotretinoin as a possible therapy, but only in the case of ordinary treatment failure and warns about its teratogenetic properties. Adds that isotretinoin use is highly-regulated by the FDA and that only providers registered with the iPLEDGE program may prescribe it. |
Adjunctive Therapies | |
AAD (2007) |
Recommends estrogen-containing oral contraceptives for selected women. Oral antiandrogens can be useful in the treatment of acne. Intralesional corticosteroid injections are effective in the treatment of individual acne nodules, There is limited data regarding herbal and alternative therapies. |
FMSD (2007) |
Recommends UV light therapy, cystic drainage, and cyproterone acetate with oestrogen as adjunctive treatments. |
ICSI (2006) |
Recommends combined oral contraceptives, corticosteroid injections, and spironolactone as adjunctive treatments. |
Follow-Up | |
AAD (2007) |
No recommendations offered. |
FMSD (2007) |
Recommends referral to a dermatologist for severe/persistent acne, as well as treatment of acne scars by skin abrasion or laser therapy after the acne has subsided. |
ICSI (2006) |
Recommends referral to a dermatologist for severe/persistent acne. Also addresses a 6 to 12 week follow-up, medication adherence questionnaires, and maintenance/modification of the treatment plan. |
All three groups are in general agreement regarding appropriate topical treatments, with all recommending benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, and topical antibiotics, or a combination of these products. The topical retinoids adapalene and tretinoin are recommended by FMSD and ICSI, with ICSI also recommending tazarotene. AAD states that there is no consensus about the relative efficacy of currently available topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalane, tazarotene, and isotretinoin). While clindamycin is the only topical antibiotic addressed by FMSD, ICSI also cites erythromycin, sulfacetamide and several combination products comprised partly of antibiotics. AAD recommends erythromycin and clindamycin. In addition to the therapies addressed above, AAD and ICSI also recommend azelaic acid as a possible topical treatment option. AAD also states that salicylic acid is moderately effective in the treatment of acne.
Therapies recommended by both FMSD and ICSI include erythromycin and tetracycline. Other first-line oral antibiotics recommended by ICSI included doxycycline and minocycline. AAD similarly recommends doxycycline and minocycline as first-line therapies, stating that they are more effective than tetracycline. AAD, however, adds that erythromycin should be reserved for patients who cannot take tetracyclines. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim alone are also cited as effective by AAD in instances where other antibiotics cannot be used. Second-line therapies also cited by ICSI are clindamycin and sulfamethoxadole. ICSI adds there is not enough evidence to make recommendations regarding the use of azithromycin. All three groups are in agreement that oral antibiotics used concurrently with a topical treatment may be an effective treatment option.
The three guidelines agree that isotretinoin is a possible therapy, but only in the case of ordinary treatment failure, with all three groups also strongly emphasizing its teratogenic properties. All three groups address the pregnancy prevention and management program, iPLEDGE.
AAD and ICSI note that intralesional injection with corticosteroids may be appropriate, but warn that each injection carries a risk of causing skin atrophy. FMSD similarly notes that pus-containing cysts can be drained by incising them with a large-caliber injection needle or narrow-tipped scalpel. All three guidelines recommend therapies with anti-androgenic properties, but differ in the specific treatments recommended (see Areas of Differences below).
FMSD and ICSI are in agreement that referral to a dermatologist is appropriate for severe and/or persistent acne that does not respond to other treatments, and that isotretinoin may be indicated for those patients.
The guidelines offer different recommendations concerning certain adjunctive therapies, most notably regarding light therapy. While FMSD recommends ultraviolet light therapy combined with other treatments to treat common acne, ICSI states that the evidence is currently inadequate to make a recommendation regarding the efficacy and safety of light treatments. AAD does not address light therapy. All three groups recommend the use of anti-androgenic therapies, yet differ slightly in terms of the specific treatments they recommend. FMSD recommends cyproterone acetate combined with an oestrogen, while AAD and ICSI recommend combined oral contraceptives. AAD adds, however, that cyproterone acetate may be useful in the treatment of acne. AAD and ICSI also cite spironolactone as an appropriate treatment for its antiandrogenic properties, with AAD noting that it may cause hyperkalemia. FMSD does not address this medication.
ICSI goes into follow-up measures at greater length than FMSD, discussing a 6 to 12 week follow-up evaluation, medication adherence questionnaires, and maintenance/modification of the treatment plan. FMSD recommends treatment of acne scars by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon using skin abrasion or laser therapy after the acne has subsided; ICSI does not address scar removal. AAD does not address follow-up.
The guidelines are in general agreement that topical treatments and oral antibiotics are appropriate first-line treatments for acne, and that isotretinoin may be appropriate in the case of ordinary treatment failure. Recommendations differ regarding the use of certain adjunctive treatments, such as ultraviolet light therapy and anti-androgenic therapies.
This Synthesis was prepared by ECRI on July 10, 2007. The information was reviewed by the ICSI on July 26, 2007, and by FMSD on August 8, 2007.
Internet citation: National Guideline Clearinghouse (NGC). Guideline synthesis: Management of acne. In: National Guideline Clearinghouse (NGC) [website]. Rockville (MD): 2007 Aug. [cited YYYY Mon DD]. Available: http://www.guideline.gov.