Blockage of the sebaceous gland (atheroma) is considered a kind of tumor-like formation. It can be noted on those parts of the body where hair grows. However, most often there is a blockage of the sebaceous glands on the face, on the head, back, neck and next to the genitals.
Atheroma is represented by an oval soft formation. Its transverse size is up to five centimeters. Blockage of the sebaceous gland is a mobile, painless formation. It is characterized by clear contours. In some cases, it grows almost imperceptibly, sometimes over the course of several years, its size does not change.
Sometimes blockage of the sebaceous gland is accompanied by suppuration with pain, swelling, redness and fever. Moreover, in many cases, pus erupts in combination with fatty contents.
It is believed that blockage of the sebaceous gland occurs as a result of metabolic disturbances, accompanied by a change in the nature of glandular secretions. The development of atheromas is also promoted by increased sweating, which manifests itself mainly with hormonal changes characteristic of a young age.
The diagnosis should be done by a specialist. In order not to harm your body, you should not independently diagnose the disease at home. This is due to the fact that the majority of atheromas are similar to other benign formations. That is why, when diagnosing in a hospital, specialists distinguish atheromas from other tumors in soft tissues and epithelial cysts.
Blockage of the glandular ducts provokes the appearance of acne on the face (acne). With atheroma, sebum builds up in the duct, causing inflammation. In many cases, the process is aggravated by microbes. A common form is acne, not only on the face, but also on the upper chest, on the back and neck.
With the development of acne, obstruction of the ducts is associated with a hereditary predisposition, puberty, diseases of the endocrine system, which are accompanied by an increase in the level of male hormones. In addition, the disease can provoke the use of cosmetics with fat emulsions in the composition or oil substances (olive oil, petroleum jelly and others). According to experts, the appearance and development of acne on the face is not associated with the nature of nutrition and the absence (presence) of sexual contacts. However, the use of certain drugs, psychotropic drugs, anabolic drugs, B-vitamins, nutritional supplements, and so on can enhance the process.
Blockage of the sebaceous gland. Treatment
The main therapeutic measures should be aimed at preventing the disease.
Depending on the severity and prevalence of the disease, various drugs can be prescribed. So, for example, to treat acne on the face, agents are used that suppress the bacterial flora and reduce inflammation. These drugs include internal and external use azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics. Also, the doctor may prescribe the use of combined agents combining an antibiotic and a component that reduces the activity of the sebaceous gland. In cases of detection of hormonal disruptions, hormone therapy is possible .
Particularly severe forms of development of atheromas suggest surgical intervention.
The desired result when conservative methods are used, as a rule, occurs after three months from the start of therapy. With a decrease in the incidence of rashes, supportive therapy is recommended.
In some cases, cosmetic procedures are used. However, their therapeutic effect is not proven.