Cystic acne,
also known as nodulocystic acne, is a severe form of acne wherein acne
develops into small cysts. Acne cysts are not true cysts in the sense
that they are not abnormal dilations of skin structure, but rather
nodules of inflammation. Although not uncommon, it is rarer than other
types of acne. Like other forms, it is caused by an excess buildup of
sebum in the pores and, contrary to popular belief, is not caused by,
nor is it affected by, hygiene or the lack thereof. A common treatment
for cystic acne is Isotretinoin, which cures most acne in about 90% of
patients.
Cystic acne can affect the face, chest, back, shoulders and,
occasionally, upper arms. Like pimples, which are more common, cysts are
usually filled with a white pus-like substance. They are usually several
centimeters in diameter, and can be quite painful.
If cystic acne is not treated early on, especially with antibiotics
along with a topical cream, some degree of scarring will occur. This can
be quite severe depending on the case. Although many scars can be
treated, scars on the body often do not respond as well as those on the
face. In most cases, it is unlikely that all scars can be removed. After
cysts have mostly healed, macules, or "pseudo scars" may form. Macules
are red patches of skin, sometimes raised slightly, where cysts used to
be, and may resemble cysts in their appearance. They are sometimes known
as "pseudo scars" because they resemble scars, but unlike true ones,
macules usually only last up to six months and leave no permanent scar.