{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Acne vulgaris and risk of depression and anxiety: A meta-analytic review.
{Author}: Samuels DV;Rosenthal R;Lin R;Chaudhari S;Natsuaki MN;
{Journal}: J Am Acad Dermatol
{Volume}: 83
{Issue}: 2
{Year}: Aug 2020
{Factor}: 15.487
{DOI}: 10.1016/j.jaad.2020.02.040
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Several studies have shown an association of acne vulgaris with depression and anxiety, but a quantitative review has not yet been conducted.<BR><B>OBJECTIVE: </B>We sought to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis that elucidates the association of acne vulgaris with depression and anxiety.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>A systematic review and meta-analysis of literature published before October 1, 2019 from the PubMed, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and Cochrane databases was conducted. We used a metaanalytic approach to perform a random effects analysis comparing individuals with and without acne. Subgroup analyses between studies included age, study setting, and geographic region.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Forty-two studies were included. We found a significant association of acne vulgaris with depression (r = 0.22 [95% confidence interval 0.17-0.26, P < .00001]) and anxiety (r = 0.25 [95% confidence interval 0.19-0.31, P < .00001]). Subgroup analyses and comparisons showed moderating influences based on factors including age, study setting, and geographic region.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Inconsistency between publications regarding acne and outcome ascertainment, data reporting, and studies with no control group posed considerable barriers to synthesizing all available published literature.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Because of an increased risk for depression and anxiety, clinicians should pursue aggressive treatment of acne and consider psychiatric screening or referrals.