MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Teenagers and acne

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Teenagers and acne

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names	Information

Illustrations

Acne - close-up of pustular lesions

Blackheads (comedones)

Blackheads (comedones) close-up

Acne, cystic on the chest

Acne, cystic on the face

Acne, vulgaris on the back

Acne, close-up of cysts on the back

Acne, cystic on the back

Acne

Alternative names Return to top

Acne and teenagers

Information Return to top

Only severe cases of acne should be treated with drugs such as Accutane. People taking Accutane and similar drugs need close monitoring because of the potential side effects such as headaches, joint pains, muscle pains, and possible birth defects in infants of pregnant teenage mothers who are taking the medication.

Antibiotics such as erythromycin and tetracycline are not as risky but may produce side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or vaginal yeast infections.

Update Date: 4/22/2003

Updated by: Elizabeth Hait, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.