Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting primarily the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. It results in erythema (redness), flushing, telangiectasia (spider veins), and inflamed bumps. Rosacea can also affect the eyes (ocular rosacea) or cause thickening of the skin (phymatous changes). People with rosacea often experience episodes of remission and flare-ups, and some experience worsening of symptoms over time.[1][2]
Unmanaged rosacea symptoms can negatively impact quality of life and psychological well-being, leading to low self-esteem, embarrassment, and an increased risk of anxiety and depression.[3][4] A 2018 meta-analysis estimated the global prevalence of rosacea to be 5.5%, with nearly all cases occurring in adults over 30. Historically it has been thought that women are more frequently affected, but this meta-analysis found no difference in rates between men and women.[5]
References
- ^van Zuuren EJ, Fedorowicz Z, Tan J, van der Linden MMD, Arents BWM, Carter B, Charland LInterventions for rosacea based on the phenotype approach: an updated systematic review including GRADE assessments.Br J Dermatol.(2019-Jul)
- ^Gallo RL, Granstein RD, Kang S, Mannis M, Steinhoff M, Tan J, Thiboutot DStandard classification and pathophysiology of rosacea: The 2017 update by the National Rosacea Society Expert Committee.J Am Acad Dermatol.(2018-Jan)
- ^van Zuuren EJ, Arents BWM, van der Linden MMD, Vermeulen S, Fedorowicz Z, Tan JRosacea: New Concepts in Classification and Treatment.Am J Clin Dermatol.(2021-Jul)
- ^Chang HC, Huang YC, Lien YJ, Chang YSAssociation of rosacea with depression and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis.J Affect Disord.(2022-Feb-15)
- ^Gether L, Overgaard LK, Egeberg A, Thyssen JPIncidence and prevalence of rosacea: a systematic review and meta-analysis.Br J Dermatol.(2018-Aug)