When Medical Tests Are Needed For Acne
On March 13, 2010 in Health
I have heard that there might be a problem with my ovaries which is why I get acne. If that is the case, what is it, why do boys get acne, and are there acne remedies for it?
You might have a condition called polycystic ovaries. This means that your ovaries have lots of fluid-filled lumps (cysts) on them. If this is the case, your ovaries won’t be producing the right balance of hormones and, in particular, too much of the male hormone testosterone.
If this is the case, you are then quite a bit more likely to have very bad acne, grow extra hair on your body and perhaps also have light or even no periods at all. In later life you could find it harder than normal if you want to get pregnant. It is very important to have tests for this condition as soon as you can; they include blood tests for the hormone levels and ultrasound scans of your ovaries.
This is one of the few times when detailed medical tests are needed for your specific case of acne. Your acne will need different and stronger acne treatment, and you might also be offered treatment for your ovaries. They are a lot bigger with all the cysts, so an operation to remove some of the cysts can lead to more normal levels of hormones.
Although girls also have some testosterone, boys’ testes - the male equivalent of ovaries - normally produce high levels of this hormone, which is why they are often more affected.