Azelaic acid 20 % cream: effects on quality of life and disease severity in adult female acne patients.

BACKGROUND

Data on the efficacy of acne treatments and their impact on quality of life (QoL) in adult patients is sketchy.

OBJECTIVE

Assessment of the efficacy of azelaic acid 20 % cream (Skinoren® ) on acne severity and disease-related QoL.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Noninterventional study in adult female patients with mild to moderate acne. Efficacy variables included DLQI and acne severity on the face, chest, and back using the Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) scale (grade 1 = nearly clear skin; 2 = mild acne; 3 = moderate acne). Visits were scheduled at baseline, at 4-8 weeks, and at twelve weeks.

RESULTS

Of the 251 women enrolled, 59 % had grade 1 acne at baseline; 31 %, grade 2; and 10 %, grade 3; the most commonly affected area of the body was the face (IGA grades 2 or 3: 79 %). After twelve weeks, there was significant improvement of acne on the face (IGA grades 0 or 1: 82 %), chest, and back. Median DLQI decreased from nine at baseline to five after twelve weeks. Ninety percent of physicians and patients rated the tolerability of the treatment as very good or good.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with azelaic acid 20 % cream significantly improves acne severity and disease-related QoL in adult women.