Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Department

School of Nursing

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is a serious disease that can have serious consequences for the person who has the condition. Acne can occur on the face, chest, back, and among other locations on the body. Its pathogenesis is complex and has many factors. Ahmad (2015), states acne involves abnormal keratinization, hormonal dysfunction and immune hypersensitivity. This condition can range from mild, moderate, or severe. Acne can be debilitating to the person who is struggling with it. Acne can occur at any age, but it is seen more often in adolescents. According to Marron, Tomas-Aragones, and Boira (2013), acne is prevalent in up to 80% of the adolescent population. This occurrence could be explained by the production of androgens during puberty.

Acne affects the pilosebaceous unit (PSU) of the skin. During puberty, the cells that line the central canal of the PSU are stimulated by hormones (especially androgens). The cells are activated and proceed to proliferate. This causes a “backup” when the proliferated cells cannot exit the infundibulum of the PSU. Sebum also backups, while hair growth continues. This leads to pressure within the units which decreases the oxygen availability to cells within the unit. With these conditions and the nutrients provided by the sebum, bacteria are able to multiply rapidly. When white blood cells begin to attack the pathogens in the unit, the formation of erythematous pustules form (Lynn, Umari, Dunnick, & Dellavale, 2016).

Advisor(s) or Committee Chair

Miranda Peterson, DNP, RN, CNE

Disciplines

Dermatology | Medicine and Health Sciences | Nursing

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