Abstract and Introduction
Abstract
The diagnosis and classification of rosacea has been modified to reflect presenting features. On exclusion of differentials, the diagnosis of rosacea is based on the presence of either (1) phymatous changes, or (2) centrofacial persistent erythema. In their absence, diagnosis can be established by presence of any two of: flushing/transient erythema, papules and pustules, telangiectases, or ocular manifestations. Management of rosacea depends on presenting feature(s), their severity, and impact. General management includes gentle skin care, sun protection, and trigger avoidance. Evidence-based treatment recommendations include topical brimonidine and oxymetazoline for persistent erythema; topical azelaic acid, ivermectin, metronidazole, minocycline and oral doxycycline, tetracycline and isotretinoin for papules and pustules; vascular lasers and light devices for telangiectases; and omega-3 fatty acids and cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion for ocular rosacea. While surgical or laser therapy can be considered for clinically noninflamed phyma, there are no trials on their utility. Combination therapies include topical brimonidine with topical ivermectin, or topical metronidazole with oral doxycycline. Topical metronidazole, topical ivermectin, and topical azelaic acid are appropriate for maintenance therapy. In conclusion, the updated phenotype approach, based on presenting clinical features, is the foundation for current diagnosis, classification, and treatment of rosacea.
Introduction
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis affecting the centrofacial region (cheeks, chin, nose, and central forehead), with a prevalence of 5.5% of the adult population.[1] While rosacea has been considered to primarily affect fair-skinned individuals, this may be due to difficulty in detecting facial redness in darker skin types. Nevertheless, rosacea patients of Asian, Hispanic, or African ancestry have been described in literature.[2] Women are more likely to develop rosacea, however, when present in men, the disease tends to be more severe.[3] The typical age of onset is after 30 years old;[4,5] however, ocular rosacea can occur as early as 22 months of age.[6] Pediatric rosacea is rare and is usually associated with a family history of the condition.[6,7] Ocular manifestations of rosacea occur in more than 50% of rosacea patients.[8]
There are several flare triggers in patients with rosacea including temperature changes, heat, cold, exercise, ultraviolet radiation, spicy food, and alcoholic beverages.[9] Microbes have also been implicated in the pathophysiology of rosacea, including Demodex species, Bacillus oleronius, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Helicobacter pylori, and Bartonella quintana.[10] The immune system, neurogenic inflammation, and vascular hyperreactivity are central to the pathophysiology of rosacea. Specifically, innate immune system activation via toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels, and proinflammatory cytokines contribute to clinical manifestations of rosacea.[11]
Rosacea has a significant impact on the emotional, social, and occupational wellbeing of affected individuals. Due to the altered facial features characterising this disease, patients with rosacea frequently experience stigmatization. Consequently, they can suffer from depression and anxiety and tend to avoid social situations.[12]
The phenotype approach establishes diagnosis and management based on the presenting features of the individual.[13] While previously classified according to subtypes, each potentially comprising multiple signs and symptoms, this nomenclature should be abandoned as it limits the ability to study, evaluate, and treat individual features.[13] The phenotype approach more accurately addresses patient features and can facilitate focused treatment on those of greatest severity and impact.[13] Thus, this review provides an overview of the updated phenotype approach in the diagnosis and management of rosacea.
Skin Therapy Letter. 2021;26(4):1-8. © 2021 SkinCareGuide.com
