12/14/2007

ROSACEA CAUSE IDENTIFIED

Until very recently, dermatologists were unsure of the exact cause of rosacea, the skin condition that is characterized by facial redness, swelling, pimples, and dilated blood vessels. Such factors as heat, alcohol, spicy foods, and embarrassment were known to trigger the facial redness associated with the skin condition. Recently, research has isolated a
combination of two abnormal factors as causes. Researchers found that overproduction of two interactive inflammatory proteins leads to excessive levels of a third protein that
causes rosacea symptoms. Specifically, too much stratum corneum tryptic enzymes (SCTE) and too much cathelicidin leads to the abnormal peptides that cause rosacea symptoms. Antibiotics (the current treatment) tend to inhibit these enzymes, but more effective treatments may now be in sight.

Rosacea usually starts with redness on the checks and can slowly worsen to include one or more additional symptoms and parts of the face. Because changes are gradual, it may be hard to recognize rosacea in its early stages. Early detection of any skin condition increases the likelihood of a successful treatment program. Please call ELMHURST DERMATOLOGY at 630-832-2111 to schedule a consultation. Our goal is to consistently provide expert care for our patients. We consider it a privilege to care for you and your family. Our practice is located at 242 N. York Road, Suite 101, Elmhurst. Most medical insurance, Visa, and MasterCard welcome.

P.S. An estimated 14 million American adults, especially those between 30 and 50 years of age, are affected by rosacea. The majority tend to have lighter skin, blond hair,
and blue eyes.