Serum Markers May Predict Acne Scarring

Serum levels of hepcidin and C-reactive protein (CRP) may be used as tools to predict the possibility of acne-related scarring, according to a new study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Researchers recruited 60 people with moderate to severe acne vulgaris, which included 35 people with postacne scars. They analyzed CRP through the use of a quantitative latex agglutination commercial kit by turbidimetry. Serum hepcidin concentration was assessed through a double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit, which is commercially available.

Findings revealed that patients with postacne scarring had significantly higher serum levels of CRP (P =<.05) and significantly lower levels of hepcidin (P =<.001)

“These simple, easy, available, and affordable tests might help in determining the susceptible patients for scarring and configuring the therapeutic plan to start an aggressive treatment in patients prone to scar formation regardless the clinical severity of acne vulgaris itself,” the investigators wrote.

Reference

El-Taweel AA, Salem RM, El-Shimi OS. Predictive value of serum markers for postacne scarring [published online August 30, 2017]. J Cosmet Dermatol. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12402