Acne Vulgaris
© 2001-2009, Dermatlas
© 2001-2009, Dermatlas
Acne and rosacea do not usually appear in the same person, but they can. They are two separate dermatologic conditions and require different treatments. Acne occurs more frequently in adolescents and young adults whereas rosacea occurs more commonly in people between the ages of 30 to 50 years. Acne vulgaris (the term for regular acne) refers to the plugging of oil gland ducts that results in the formation of pimples and blackheads on the face, shoulders, back, and/or chest. Rosacea, however, occurs due to a sensitive vascular system that dilates too easily, causing redness, flushing, and even bumps and pimples that remain on the face.
Eczema
© 2001-2009, Dermatlas
Rosacea is not linked to eczema or atopic dermatitis, two conditions marked by dry, and usually extra-sensitive skin. Eczema is found in people with dry skin and can look like red scales, crusting, or even weeping pustules that can occur anywhere on the body. Itching is the most significant symptoms associated with eczema and atopic dermatitis. People often have a personal or family history of eczema (or atopic dermatitis), allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergies), and/or asthma.
Allergies & Contact Dermatitis
© 2001-2009, Dermatlas
Allergies may cause flushing and even itching that mimics the start of a rosacea flare. However, people usually have allergies from childhood or early adolescence. Also, bumps and pimples are less common in allergic flares. Contact dermatitis may be caused by skin irritation or allergy to different items such as chemicals, cosmetics, medications, metals, and even different plants and animals. These reactions usually occur within a few hours after exposure to the allergic material and the symptoms get worse the more contact you have with the item. A diary may help to document, remember, and prevent exposures that caused allergic flares or contact dermatitis.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
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Rosacea is not related to seborrheic dermatitis, a condition described by a reddish-yellow and greasy scale in the central portion of the face. More commonly, flakes of white or yellow scale (often referred to as dandruff) are found on the scalp, eyebrows, and beard. Seborrheic dermatitis may also occur on other areas besides the face whereas rosacea typically is seen on the central region of the face.
Drug Eruption
© 2001-2009, Dermatlas
A reaction to a medication may occur and cause flushing of the face and body. Usually it is a new medication the patient has never tried before that causes this response. Typically, medications with bromide and iodide can cause a drug eruption. It is important to remember all medications that cause reactions so that they are not prescribed in the future.
Menopause
During menopause, a woman may experience hot flashes. Although hot flashes may trigger a rosacea flare, the two conditions are not related. While hot flashes may cause the face to turn red and bring symptoms of discomfort, it usually goes away before the end of the day.
Lupus
© 2001-2009, Dermatlas
There is no connection between rosacea and lupus, although occasionally the facial rash common to both conditions may appear similar. While rosacea usually appears as a red, flushed rash over the central face, a rash in a butterfly-shaped distribution is characteristic of lupus. The appearance of bumps and pimples, which are often present in rosacea, may help distinguish the condition from Lupus. Perhaps most importantly, lupus often occurs with more bodily symptoms such as fevers, arthritis, and signs of renal, heart, or lung involvement.
Skin Cancer
No evidence has linked rosacea patients with increased risk of developing skin cancer later in life. However, since rosacea patients are more typically fair-skinned individuals with increased sensitivity to sunlight, their risk for skin cancer may be increased due to these characteristics alone (independent of rosacea). It is important to get regular skin checks with your dermatologist and protect yourself everyday from the sun with sunscreen and protective clothing.
References:
National Rosacea Society. Web. http://www.rosacea.org/index.php
Rosacea. MDconsult, 2009. Web. www.mdconsult.com
© 2001-2009,Dermatlas