Evaluation of serum adiponectin and lipid profile in patients with acne vulgaris

Background Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit and is among the most common dermatological conditions worldwide. Adipokines are bioactive molecules secreted by adipocytes. Adiponectin is the most abundant adipokine. It has multiple properties, which includes sensitization of insulin, anti-inflammatory, and antiatherogenic effect. Objectives This study aims to evaluate serum adiponectin and lipid profile levels in patients with acne vulgaris and their correlation with each other and disease severity. Patients and methods This is a case-control study, conducted on a total of 90 patients with acne vulgaris and matched age, sex, and body mass index 70 healthy controls. Serum adiponectin and lipid profile levels were evaluated in all subjects. Results Total cholesterol (TC), total triglycrides (TG) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) were significantly higher in acne vulgaris cases, while high density lipoprotein (HDL) was statistically significant lower in cases compared to controls. Adiponectin concentration was significantly higher in acne vulgaris cases when compared to control group with positive correlations with female gender, disease severity, TC, LDL and significant negative correlation with HDL. Conclusions Adiponectin may play a role in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris and may affect its severity. Evaluation of all acne patients for lipid profile and advice for healthy diets as an adjuvant method to acne treatment.