Although many topical or systemic antibiotics exist to treat acne vulgaris, the common inflammatory skin disease is not fully treatable.
A new article published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology discusses the importance of mast cell control in suppressing postacne scar formation.
For those with severe acne, postacne scarring poses a major aesthetic problem that can have severe impacts on an individual’s quality of life. However, previous research suggests that blocking mast cell function with tranilast can prevent or minimize scarring, researchers explained, despite the involvement of mast cells in the development of acne scare receiving little attention overall.
Although many topical or systemic antibiotics exist to treat acne vulgaris, the common inflammatory skin disease is not fully treatable. It is caused by clogged pores, dead skin, oils, and bacteria that build up in pores and inflame them. Some might also have a genetic predisposition to acne.
Tranilast, which was initially marketed as an anti-allergic agent, can regulate mast cell–derived mediators. “Mast cells contribute to allergic reaction via a number of biological processes and its derived mediators, such as transforming growth factor-β 1 from keloid fibroblasts, which enhances collagen synthesis in keloid fibroblasts in hypertrophic scar tissue, and can regulate the remodeling stages of wound healing,” the study author wrote.
Because of this, the blocking of mast cell function can serve as a satisfactory therapeutic strategy. “The daily combined use of tranilast with antibiotics can treat severe acne and prevents the formation of new scars,” the author added. In comparison, a single treatment with oral and/or externally administered antibiotics can cause atrophic scars.
Tranilast is a daily medical agent that’s been approved in Japan for more than 30 years.
One study found acne lesions in their early stage were detected as prominent activated mast cells producing interleukin-17. Another study noted an increase in the number of mast cells in inflammatory acne lesions. The same study also noted that, “on the sebaceous glands, inflammatory reactions can be influenced not only by purulent inflammation due to bacteria, but also via mast cell activation, probably resulting in scar development.”
Further, these researchers pointed out dermal levels of neuropeptides from mast cells could stimulate lipogenesis of the sebaceous glands. However, because acne normally occurs on the face, examining the lesioned tissue could be difficult. As such, mast cells in acne might not always be histopathologically examined and confirmed.
Acne represents the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans each year, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The condition usually begins in puberty, while around 85% of those aged 12 to 24 years experiencing at least minor acne at some point in their life. Among those with acne, around 1 of 5 patients will experience scarring.
However, acne’s prevalence in adults is increasing, and the condition affects up to 15% of US women.
A range of treatments currently exist for acne scarring, and treatment plans can vary based on scar types and where they appear on patients’ bodies:
The study’s author noted that going forward, more research is needed on how mast cell chemical mediators are involved in acne scarring.
“Based on these findings, more attention should be paid to the involvement and control of mast cells in the development of scarring in severe acne,” they concluded.
Reference
Horiuchi, Y. Importance of mast cell activation control for preventing scar formation in severe acne. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2023;16(3):30-31.
Research Shows Prior Authorization Denials Delay Critical Immunology Care
May 10th 2024Results featured at the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy 2024 annual meeting revealed a pattern of prior authorization rejections that could delay necessary therapeutic treatments for various patient groups.
Read More
Frameworks for Advancing Health Equity: Urban Health Outreach
May 9th 2024In the series debut episode of "Frameworks for Advancing Health Equity," Mary Sligh, CRNP, and Chelsea Chappars, of Allegheny Health Network, explain how the Urban Health Outreach program aims to improve health equity for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Listen
Patients With Advanced, Recurrent Melanoma May Experience Lasting AEs From ICM Therapy
May 9th 2024A cross-sectional, mixed-methods study found that adverse effects (AEs) can occur even after 1 year of treatment with immune checkpoint modulator (ICM) therapy in patients with melanoma.
Read More
Examining Low-Value Cancer Care Trends Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 25th 2024On this episode of Managed Care Cast, we're talking with the authors of a study published in the April 2024 issue of The American Journal of Managed Care® about their findings on the rates of low-value cancer care services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Listen
Goal Achievement in T1D Management Boosts Self-Efficacy, Self-Care Among Emerging Adults
May 9th 2024Findings from the FAMS-T1D study demonstrate that structured goal-setting and achievement significantly enhance self-efficacy and self-care in emerging adults who have type 1 diabetes (T1D).
Read More
Medication Adherence Star Ratings Measures, Health Care Resource Utilization, and Cost
May 9th 2024For patients prescribed diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia medications, nonadherence to CMS Star Ratings quality measures of medication adherence was associated with increased health care resource utilization and costs.
Read More