A Clinical study of Recurrent Acne in the Oriental Medicine

여드름에 관한 임상적 연구

Acne is a common chronic disease which most frequently affects the face, appearing in both males and females near puberty, and in most cases becomes less active as adolescence ends. The intensity and duration of activity vary for each individual. The disease may be minor, with only a few comedones or papules, or it may occur as the highly inflammatory and diffusely scarring acne conglobation. Permanent scarring of the skin and psyche can result from such inaction. The disease, however, has implications far beyond the few marks that may appear on the face. The lesions cannot be hidden under clothing; each is prominently displayed and detracts significantly from one's personal appearance and self-esteem. Recently many of acne patients are visiting to Oriental Medicine Hospitals. They want to receive the treatment of acne related another disease and causes, or worry about side effects of antibiotics and hormone therapy. This study was performed at Pundang Cha Oriental Medicine Hospital Department of Dermatology from March 1, 1997 to February 29, 2000 in 31 patients with recurrent acne. We investigated the clinical findings, included distribution of age & sex, severity of acne, sites on face, related causes, duration of disease and causes of visiting Oriental Medicine Hospital and so on. The results were as follows : The peak age at onset was 20-29 years old in females with 16 cases reported. The 22 total cases patients had severe signs with most frequently sites being forehead & chin. They visited Oriental Medicine Hospital because they want to take the treatment of acne related with another body problems(12 cases) and worry about side effects of antibiotics. Twenty cases were diagnosed 肺熱血熱(20 cases). And given acupuncture treatment, herb-medication and sometimes we used external applications. Relatively, their satisfaction grade was high. Dermatologists are trying to treat new methods in order to remove scar and decrease sebaceous gland secretion,. And we, Oriental Medicine doctors, have to develop and offer to patients the most effective management and successful treatment of this disease.