Acne of the violinist.

Abstract

We recently observed a 15-year-old white male in excellent general health, who complained of acne. He had never consulted so far a dermatologist and currently treated his acne by over the counter topicals. He was a right-handed amateur violinist practicing over one hour sessions two times per week. Upon physical examination, many comedones and some scattered papulopustules were observed on the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin. The eruption looked much more severe on the left side beneath the jaw line (Fig. 1) as compared with the same contralateral region. The final diagnosis was acne vulgaris deteriorated by chin rest. The patient was suggested to place a soft tissue between the neck and instrument during practice and was prescribed topical retinoids and oral antibiotics. At the one month follow up, the rash had greatly improved.