Evaluation of serum ghrelin in patients with acne vulgaris

Objectives The aim of the study was to evaluate serum ghrelin in nonobese patients with moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris. Background Acne vulgaris is a multifactorial disease that affects mostly the adolescent population, but it is difficult to predict those who are prone to severe forms. Patients and methods A case–control study was conducted on 80 participants selected from the Dermatology Outpatient Clinic at Menoufia University Hospital during the period of study from March 2019 till December 2020. Full history taking and clinical and dermatological examinations were done. Serum ghrelin level was measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results There was highly statistically significant difference between the two studied groups regarding serum ghrelin level. There was significant negative correlation between the severity according to The Global Acne Grading System with serum ghrelin level groups in terms of fasting glucose level, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein. Conclusion There is a relationship between acne vulgaris and the level of ghrelin hormone, which is decreased in the serum of acne patients.