Role of Vitamin D and Its Topical Analogues in Pathogenesis and Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

Vitamin D and Its Topical Analogues: A Possible Role in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a chronic skin disease of the pilosebaceous unit characterized by formation of papules, pustules, comedones, nodules and cysts. It can have a major psychological burden on the patients. It develops due to blockage of the hair follicles. This is thought to occur as a result of the following four abnormal processes: a higher than normal amount of sebum production, excessive deposition of keratin leading to comedo formation, hair follicles' colonization by Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) and the local release of pro-inflammatory mediators. Androgens also play a role in pathogenesis either from elevated levels or exacerbated response

In 2015, acne was estimated to affect 633 million people globally, making it the 8th most common disease worldwide. Acne commonly occurs in adolescence and affects an estimated 80-90% of teenagers. Children and adults may also be affected before and after puberty Many treatment options for acne are available, including lifestyle changes; such as eating healthy, medications (topical and systemic) and medical procedure.Despite of the availability of many therapeutic modalities, none of them has proved to be ideal. Recently, Vitamin D was proved to be an exciting option for treating many chronic inflammatory dermatological diseases. It appears to have systemic antimicrobial and other effects that may be crucial in a variety of both acute and chronic illnesses. Vitamin D regulates the immune system, Furthermore, it has antioxidant and anti-comedogenic properties. So, Vitamin D deficiency maybe involved in the pathogenesis of Acne Vulgaris . Thus,Vitamin D use could potentially reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescription and boost therapeutic response, either as a monotherapy or in combination with other anti-acne medications. High glycemic food intake and excessive consumption of dairy products as well as of saturated fatty acids were all suggested to have an influence on AV course. In addition, obesity has been reported to be associated with acne. Interestingly, genetic studies found out that obesity can drive down vitamin D levels So, there seems to be a theoretical background about the association between Acne Vulgaris, Vitamin D and obesity

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with Acne of any grade.
2. Patients between 18 and 45 years old.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients below 18 and above 45years.
2. Patients with any concomitant Dermatologic or systemic illness
3. Patients on any topical or systemic medication within 4 weeks before enrollment.
4. Pregnancy.