Evaluation of the measurement of tendon and ligament thicknesses and the presence of enthesitis in lower extremities in female patients with acne vulgaris: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Aim: Acne Vulgaris (AV) is a multifactorial disease which affects young population and is most common in adolescents. There are no studies in the literature invastigating the presence of enthesitis and lower extremity tendons and ligaments thicknesses in patients with AV. To investigate the presence of enthesitis and to evaluate the tendon and ligament thicknesses in lower extremities in patients with AV. Material and Method: Thirty patients with a diagnosis of AV and 18 healthy participants, were included. Acne severity was determined with the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS). A single radiologist performed ultrasonographic evaluation with respect to Glasgow Ultrasonographic Enthesitis Scoring System (GUESS). Measurement were done on quadriceps tendons, patellar tendons, Achilles tendons and plantar fascias of the bilaterally lower extremity. Results: Age, body mass index, alcohol usage and smoking were similar between groups. GUESS score was similar in both group. Proximal patellar ligaments, distal patellar ligaments, Achilles tendons and plantar fascias thicknesses were significantly increased in dominant and non-dominant legs in patients with AV (p