Clinical case of acne inversa

Abstract

Acne inversa is a rare skin disease characterized by recurrent nodules and abscesses that rupture with suppurative discharge and lead to sinus tracts and scarring. The disease is chronic and debilitating. In typical cases, it is diagnosed at late stages, when more aggressive therapeutic treatment is obligatory. There is not generally any accepted therapeutic algorithms, therefore, it is a difficult-to-manage disease, which determines the necessity for further study. We present a clinical case of acne inversa with non-classical phenotypic features and the results of its treatment with systemic retinoids, and metformin. We also provide a review of the literature on the etiology, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of acne inversa. Currently, there is no reliable algorithms of diagnostics and effective treatment for patients with acne inversa, which underlines the importance of further study of this disease.