Rosacea

Rosacea is a common inflammatory disorder of the hair follicles and oil glands coupled with in increase in activity of blood vessels of the face, leading to flushing and redness. It affects people of fair complexions who are between 30-50 years of age. Many of these patients have a history of acne at a younger age.

Rosacea has four recognized subtypes:

• Flushing with persistent redness
• Papule and pus bump formation
• Rhinophymatous
• Ocular

Patients generally present complaining of reddening of the face with increases in temperature. Other factors that worsen rosacea are:

• Spicy foods
• Alcohol
• Sun exposure
• Wind exposure
• Caffeine

Rosacea tends to be a recurring problem with flares occurring for a number of years. The disease may disappear spontaneously. Treatments include:

• Metronidazole cream or gel
• Sodium sulfacetamide wash or cream
• Topical antibiotics
• Oral antibiotics
• Oral retinoids
• Vascular laser procedures
• Sun avoidance and protection