Depression and Quality of Life in Adolescent Acne Patients

Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the pilosebaceous unit. Notwithstanding its non-life-threatening nature, it significantly impacts the quality of life of those afflicted. It is predominantly prevalent among adolescents and young adults. In this descriptive observational study involving 254 adolescent acne patients, data was collected through structured instruments and subsequently analyzed statistically. The study revealed a markedly higher incidence of depression within this cohort (30.7%) compared to healthy adolescents in Mexico (7.1%), with a higher prevalence among females (40%). An evident direct proportional relationship between depression levels and perceived quality of life was observed. The severity of perceived acne symptoms correlated with increased levels of depression. Ultimately, the study concluded that acne constitutes a risk factor for the onset of depression in adolescence.