Introduction: Acne is a common dermatological disorder affecting people between the ages of 12-24 years. It has been implicated in psychiatric and psychological processes more than most other dermatological conditions, scientific evidence has illustrated that the effects of this condition are far more than skin deep, ranging from dissatisfaction with appearance, embarrassment, self-consciousness, and lack of self-confidence. A lot of studies have been done in other countries showing considerable impact on the quality of life of patients with acne vulgaris. The data in the Indian subcontinent is insufficient; hence we designed this study to assess the impact of acne vulgaris on quality of life of patients.
Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 60 patients suffering from acne vulgaris visiting the out-patient department over 2 months from June 2012 to July 2012. Assessment of acne was done using the global acne grading system (GAGS). Patients of either sex in the age group of 18-35 years, who were willing to give written informed consent, were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups: group A, males and group B, females. Patients were then assessed for quality of life parameters using Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI) and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) as outcome measure.
Results: 60 of the 60 patients (group A - 29, group B - 31) completed the study. Average CADI score is 7.12±0.41 and DLQI score is 8.98±0.57. Comparison between group A and group B, using various statistical test revealed statistically non-significant (p>0.05) results.
Conclusion: Both sexes showed moderate disability of life as scores are high on Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI) and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Both groups when compared showed non-significant results, with females having slightly more effect.