Plasma Testosterone and Estrogen Levels, Urine Testosterone Excretion, and Sebum Production in Males with Acne Vulgaris

Abstract

Testosterone levels in plasma and urine, plasma 17[beta]-estradiol and estrone, and sebum production were measured in 26 males, age 17-21, with acne vulgaris and compared with similar measurements carried out in 16 normal males in the same age range. Sebum production was significantly higher in the subjects with acne. However, both plasma and urine testosterone values did not differ between the 2 groups. Plasma 17[beta]-estradiol and estrone concentrations were both significantly elevated in the acne subjects. No positive correlation was observed between the elevated values for sebum production and plasma estrogens. The significance of the increased estrogen values in acne is unknown. The failure to demonstrate differences in plasma or urine testosterone in acne suggests that this disorder is not accompanied by increased androgen production.