New Study Highlights Risk of Metabolic Syndrome in Acne Keloidalis Nuchae

Patients with AKN Have increased risk of High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Obesity and Cholesterol Issues

Acne keloidalis is a chronic scarring alopecia characterized by the development of papules, nodules, plaques and/or tumorous masses – typically starting in the lower occipital area of the scalp. The cause is not clear although trauma to the scalp is thought to play a role including close shaving, friction, heat and humidity.

A new study set out to evaluated the risk of ‘metabolic syndrome’ in patients with acne keloidalis. Metabolic syndrome refers to those medical diseases that together increase the risk for cardiovascular disease.

The researchers compared 2677 patients with AKN and 13,190 controls. Compared to the controls, patients with AKN had an increased risk for a variety of issues that comprise metabolic syndrome including high blood pessure, diabetes, obesity and cholesterol Issues

REFERENCE

Kridin K et al. Acne Keloidalis Nuchae and the Metabolic Syndrome: A Population-Based Study. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2020 Oct;21(5):733-739.