Acne vulgaris and risk of depression and anxiety: A meta-analytic review

Abstract

Background: Several studies have shown an association of acne vulgaris with depression and anxiety, but a quantitative review has not yet been conducted.

Objective: We sought to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis that elucidates the association of acne vulgaris with depression and anxiety.

Methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Limitations: 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.

Conclusions: Because of an increased risk for depression and anxiety, clinicians should pursue aggressive treatment of acne and consider psychiatric screening or referrals.

Keywords: acne; acne vulgaris; adolescence; anxiety; depression; meta-analysis; meta-analytic review; psychiatric morbidity.