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Contents
  • The Bone Age X-Ray: A Window into Development
  • Hormonal Health Check
  • Beyond Hormones: Other Potential Tests
  • When is Testing Necessary?

Decoding Your Child's Acne: When to Test for Underlying Issues

Decoding Your Child's Acne: When to Test for Underlying Issues

Beyond Skin Deep

Sometimes, childhood acne is more than just a skin issue. Certain cases may signal underlying health concerns that require medical testing. Let's explore when and why these tests might be necessary.
Contents
  • The Bone Age X-Ray: A Window into Development
  • Hormonal Health Check
  • Beyond Hormones: Other Potential Tests
  • When is Testing Necessary?

The Bone Age X-Ray: A Window into Development

One key test for children with acne is the bone age radiograph. This X-ray of the hand and wrist can reveal if a child's skeletal development is ahead of their chronological age. Advanced bone age might indicate premature adrenarche or other hormonal imbalances, prompting further investigation.

Hormonal Health Check

If acne appears unusually early or is accompanied by other signs of early puberty, hormonal testing may be recommended. This typically involves blood tests to measure levels of androgens (male hormones) and other hormones related to growth and development. Elevated hormone levels can help identify conditions like premature adrenarche or, rarely, tumors affecting hormone production.
Childhood acne can sometimes indicate underlying health issues such as hormonal imbalances or premature adrenarche. Testing like bone age X-rays and hormonal blood tests can help diagnose these conditions.

Beyond Hormones: Other Potential Tests

In some cases, additional tests may be necessary. These could include thyroid function tests, tests for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in girls, or screenings for other metabolic disorders. While rare, these conditions can sometimes manifest with acne as an early sign.

When is Testing Necessary?

Not all children with acne need extensive testing. Factors that might prompt further investigation include acne before age 7 or after age 12, severe or treatment-resistant acne, or acne accompanied by other signs of early puberty like rapid growth or early development of body hair.

FAQs

Does all childhood acne require testing?

No, only cases with concerning features need additional tests.

Are these tests painful?

Most are simple blood tests or X-rays with minimal discomfort.

How long do test results take?

Results usually come back within a few days to a week.

Will insurance cover these tests?

Most medical insurance plans cover necessary diagnostic tests.

What happens if tests show an issue?

Your doctor will discuss treatment options based on the specific findings.

Knowledge is Power

While most childhood acne is benign, appropriate testing can provide peace of mind and catch any underlying issues early.
Wondering if your child needs testing for their acne? Consult with Doctronic to understand your options and next steps.
Additional References
  1. Bree AF, Siegfried EC. Acne vulgaris in preadolescent children: recommendations for evaluation. Pediatr Dermatol 2014; 31:27.
  2. Rosenfield RL. Normal and Premature Adrenarche. Endocr Rev 2021; 42:783.
  3. Lucky AW, Biro FM, Huster GA, et al. Acne vulgaris in premenarchal girls. An early sign of puberty associated with rising levels of dehydroepiandrosterone. Arch Dermatol 1994; 130:308.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.