Diagnostic tests
1st tests to order
1st tests to ordertable-forAcne vulgaris
| Test | Result |
- clinical diagnosis
-
Usually no testing is necessary.
| clinical features of acne vulgaris |
Tests to consider
Tests to considertable-forAcne vulgaris
| Test | Result |
- hormonal evaluation
-
Rarely required.
Free testosterone is the most sensitive test to establish the presence of hyperandrogenism; ordered only when there is concern for hyperandrogenism.
If laboratory tests are abnormal, referral to an endocrinologist is indicated.
| elevated total testosterone, dehydroepiandrostenedione sulphate (DHEA-S), luteinising hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) |
- bacterial culture
-
Rarely required.
Ordered only when standard treatments are not efficacious and there is clinical suspicion of gram-negative folliculitis.
Sample should be collected from multiple inflammatory lesions and also from a pustule if present.
Treatment based on isolation and sensitivities of bacteria.
| positive culture of gram-negative bacteria |
Last updated: Oct 15, 2012
