Serious Disorders That Could Be More Than Acne

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is an untreatable hormonal disorder characterized by a variety of genetic disorders that inhibit the adrenal gland's ability to produce certain hormones. Acne is a common symptom of this condition, as are ambiguous genitalia in females, excessive body hair, rapid growth in childhood (but short stature overall), as well as adrenal crisis. Individuals with congenital adrenal hyperplasia usually produce either too many or too few sex hormones, such as testosterone. According to Doctor Bethanee Schlosser at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, individuals "with [congenital adrenal hyperplasia] have a problem with the adrenal glands, which produce and metabolize hormones."

Next, learn about another skin condition more serious than acne.