Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory disorder of the pilo-sebaceous follicles. It is a multifactorial disease and its pathophysiology centers on the interplay of follicular hyperkeratinization, colonization with Propionibacterium acnes (PA), increased sebum production, and inflammation. This disease is occurring mainly in adolescence. Although the peak of prevalence is around the 17th year of life, acne lesions can appear earlier and are not uncommonly observed in the age group ranging from 12 to 14 years.

Antibiotic therapy has long been found useful in the management of moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris. Mechanisms of action include suppressing growth of PA, reducing the production of inflammatory mediators, and acting in immunomodulation. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include tetracyclines, doxycycline, minocycline and erythromycin.

Based on an article published in March edition of Medscape Journal: