A FACTOR ANALYSIS OF THE ACNE COMPLEX WITH THERAPEUTIC COMMENT

Abstract

This paper is an attempt to apply multiple factor analysis to a commonplace dermatosis. It is based on 921 cases observed by one of us (J.H.S.) in fifteen years, plus a statistical breakdown of etiologic components in 200 cases selected for the completeness of their histories and reviewed in 1935 and 1936. The principal worth of the study to us has been its clear demonstration that the acneform eruptions have multiple causes and that neglect of important items or overemphasis on individual contributing factors as sole causes leads to disappointing therapeutic results. The study includes an examination of 253 exacerbations and relapses in the course of typical acne, in which, however, the factor of intercurrent infection was underemphasized because the material antedates the year 1937, in which we first gave this item special study. Thirteen factors of greater or less etiologic importance and therapeutic moment appear in a study of