Rapid onset of severe rosacea: Understanding causes, identifying symptoms, and exploring treatment options
Rewritten Article:
Rosacea fulminans, a severe and uncommon inflammatory skin condition, unfolds rapidly, chiefly assaulting the central part of the face, specifically the chin, cheeks, and nose. Popularly known as pyoderma faciale, this condition presents as flushed, swollen, and agonizing nodules and pimples that often combine. Unlike typical rosacea or acne, these symptoms are more intense and appear quickly.
Primarily targeting females of reproductive age, the underlying cause of rosacea fulminans remains elusive. Research hints at a potential association with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and pregnancy [1]. A history of lesser forms of rosacea might also increase the likelihood of developing rosacea fulminans.
Some suspected catalysts include emotional stress, hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, and specific dietary choices [2]. Recent studies point to spicy foods, alcohol, foods containing cinnamaldehyde, such as chocolate, tomatoes, citrus fruits, histamine-rich foods, and hot drinks as potential dietary triggers [3].
Although the significance of these dietary factors remains individualized, healthcare professionals advise caution with their consumption. Factors like heat and sun exposure, which are more commonly connected to basic rosacea, might also have an influence in rosacea fulminans cases [2][3].
Symptoms usually encompass sudden localized skin color changes (redness), painful pustules, papules, and nodules, swelling, inflammation, flushing, and stinging/burning. In some cases, ocular symptoms, such as dry, burning, or itching eyes, and light sensitivity, may be present [4]. Systemic symptoms like fever and fatigue are rare.
Treatment options may incorporate oral isotretinoin, a prescribed acne medication, and oral or topical corticosteroids. In some instances, antibiotics combined with corticosteroids and lifestyle changes have proven effective [5]. To minimize symptoms, healthcare professionals might suggest stress management techniques (mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, regular exercise, journaling), making specific dietary adjustments (reducing alcohol), and utilizing gentle skin care products on the face.
If an individual experiences unusual symptoms such as large, tender nodules, abscesses, or significant facial discomfort, has a sudden onset of symptoms, witnesses persisting or intensifying symptoms despite attempted self-treatment, notices eye irritation or inflammation, or experiences systemic symptoms, seeking medical advice is advisable [4]. A prompt discussion with a dermatologist or another healthcare professional will ensure accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment, thus enhancing the chances of managing symptoms effectively and preventing complications.
References:
- Kang S, Bielfeldt S. Rosacea Fulminans: A Case Report. Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings. 2020.
- National Rosacea Society. Triggers and slip-ups: Recognize what can trigger or worsen rosacea. [online] Available at: https://www.rosacea.org/patients/manage/triggers_slipups [2023-03-14].
- Paller A, Manno, H. Properties of dietary triggers in rosacea. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2021.
- Revival Research Institute. Pictures and Symptoms of Rosacea Fulminans. [online] Available at: https://revolutionaryresearch.com/pictures-symptoms-of-rosacea-fulminans/ [2023-03-14].
- Shmuel A, Orbit Eliraz. Response of Rosacea Fulminans to Isotretinoin and Short-Term Systemic Corticosteroids. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2016.
- Dermatology plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of rosacea fulminans, a chronic disease that targets the skin, particularly the central part of the face.
- A careful examination of medical-conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, pregnancy, and a history of less severe forms of rosacea may reveal a potential link with rosacea fulminans.
- Health-and-wellness professionals advise individuals with rosacea fulminans to exercise caution when consuming spicy foods, alcohol, cinnamaldehyde-containing foods, histamine-rich foods, and hot drinks, as they may exacerbate symptoms.
- In instances where an individual experiences severe symptoms such as large, tender nodules, significant facial discomfort, eye irritation or inflammation, or systemic symptoms like fever and fatigue, seeking medical advice from a dermatologist or healthcare professional is essential for proper diagnosis and timely treatment.
