Acne fulminans

Last Updated: 2023-07-07

Author(s): Anzengruber F., Navarini A.

ICD11: ED80.40

Pautrier 1937

Plewig and Kligman 1975

Acute febrile ulcerative conglobate acne

Acne maligna

Acute disease with severe general symptoms (fever, joint complaints) and acne conglobata.

Only found in boys between 13-16 years of age.

Unknown.

Within a few weeks, the following symptoms occur:

  • Acne conglobata
  • Joint pain (sacroiliac, hip, knee and elbow pain)
  • Fever and reduced general condition
  • Proteinuria, leukocytosis
  • Splenomegaly
  • Aseptic bone necrosis (SAPHO syndrome)
  • Leukocytoclastic vasculitis
  • Erythema nodosum
  • Hemorrhagic necrosis
  • Granuloma pyogenicum-like skin lesions
.
  • Anamnesis
  • Clinical picture
  • BB, ESR, liver & kidney values
  • U status
  • If necessary, radiological clarification
  • Rheumatological consultation
  1. Akne vulgaris.

Recurrences do not usually occur.

  • Physical rest.
  • Prednisolone p.o. 1 mg per kg bw for 6-8 weeks gradually.
  • Oral antibiotics
    • Clindamycin, weight-adapted.
    • Cephalosporins, weight-adapted.
  • Isotretinoin (low-dose).
  1. Peleg H, Koslowski B, Hiller N, Heyman SN. Radiologic features of acne fulminans. Isr Med Assoc J. 2014 Jun;16(6):393-4.
  2. Giavedoni P, Mascaró-Galy JM, Aguilera P, Estrach-Panella T. Acne fulminans successfully treated with cyclosporine and isotretinoin. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014 Feb;70(2):e38-9.

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