Rosacea
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - L71
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory disease that most commonly affects the skin and, rarely, the eyes. It has several types, each defined by the patient’s symptoms. One of these forms is often mistaken for acne, commonly referred to as “pimples.”
What causes rosacea?
The exact cause of rosacea is not yet fully understood, but several contributing factors have been identified. These include dysfunctions in the skin’s blood vessels, inflammatory reactions to microorganisms on the skin, changes in innate immunity, and skin damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Is there a cure or treatment?
There is treatment, but it must be tailored to each type of rosacea and the patient’s age group. Each patient should be individually evaluated by a specialist.
Incidence
Rosacea can affect adults, especially those in their 30s, women, and individuals with skin phototypes I and II—that is, lighter skin tones are more commonly affected. Although rare, rosacea can also occur in children. In the early stages, women are more frequently affected. However, men are more likely to develop rhinophyma (a condition affecting the nose caused by rosacea).
Is rosacea more noticeable in winter?
Actually, the worsening of this condition is more closely related to the intensity of ultraviolet (UV) rays. Therefore, it is during the summer that rosacea symptoms can truly become more severe. However, it’s important to remember that even on cold days, you should still use sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure.
How can we prevent rosacea from becoming more severe?
By consulting a dermatologist, who is qualified to distinguish rosacea from other skin conditions that may appear similar, and to begin the correct treatment. Proper diagnosis is essential to determine the specific type of rosacea and guide the appropriate treatment.