Cystic Acne |
![]() Understanding Cystic and Nodulocystic AcneCystic acne, or nodulocystic acne, is the most severe form of acne vulgaris. Deep, inflamed breakouts develop on the face and/or other areas of the body. The blemishes themselves can become large; some may measure up to several centimeters across. Although many people use the term "cystic" to describe any type of severely inflamed acne, only those who develop cysts truly have cystic acne. Cysts are the most serious kind of acne blemish. They feel like soft, fluid-filled lumps under the skin's surface. Cysts can be painful. Nodulocystic acne sufferers develop nodules as well as cysts. Nodules are hard, painful lumps under the skin's surface. Much larger than papules, nodules form deep within the skin and take a long time to heal. Some skin care experts believe acne cysts are not really cysts at all, but rather severely inflamed nodular breakouts. For those who have nodules, but do not have cystic lesions, the term nodular acne is more accurate. No matter what label you use, a dermatologist must treat acne of this severity. |
