April has been designated “Rosacea Awareness Month” by the National Rosacea Society (NRS), with the aim of educating the public about the disease.
“During April and throughout the year, people who suspect they may have rosacea can contact the NRS for more information,” according to a press release issued April 2 by the NRS.
An estimated 16 million people in the United States have rosacea, which also affects the eyes in about half of patients, according to the NRS.The press release refers to the new standard diagnostic guidelines for rosacea, developed by the National Rosacea Society Expert Committee, which were released online in 2017 (J Am Acad Dermatol. 2018 Jan;78[1]:148-55).
“According to the new standard system, the presence of one of two signs or symptoms known as phenotypes – persistent redness of the facial skin or, less commonly, the thickening of the facial skin, often around the nose – is considered diagnostic of rosacea,” the release states. “Additional major phenotypes, which often appear with the diagnostic features, include bumps and pimples, flushing, visible blood vessels, and irritation of the eyes. The presence of two or more major phenotypes independent of the diagnostic features is also considered diagnostic of rosacea. Secondary phenotypes, which must appear with one or more diagnostic or major phenotypes, include burning or stinging, swelling, and dry appearance.”More information for patients is available on the NRS website, at www.rosacea.org, via email at rosaceas@aol.com, or by calling 888-NO-BLUSH (662-5874).
emechcatie@mdedge.com