I was recently diagnosed by my Dermatologist as having Acne Inversa. I have had continuing problems with acne and cysts on my buttocks area for approximately 15 years. I have seen multiple physicians regarding the condition, however, all have either treated me only with antibiotics or considered it an allergic reaction of some sort, regardless, none of the treatments have worked. Recently I went to a new dermatologist who diagnosed me with Acne Inversa, however, he stated it was curable and prescribed me Accutane. Upon further reading about Acne Inversa, I found out that not only was Acne Inversa incurable, but also very difficult to treat. Recently the disease has seemingly spread past my buttocks area onto the back of my thighs and my waistband area.
1) What is the current and most effective treatment for Acne Inversa? (Most of my reading online was from relatively dated material) I have been taking Accutane for approximately one month and have so far not seen any favorable results. I have also read that Accutane does little for Acne Inversa. Is there truth to this?
2) I have read that Carbon Dioxide Laser Ablation may be just as effective as skin grafts, however, it was an emerging treatment. As the material I was reading was dated, has their been improvements or increase success in the use of Carbon Dioxide Laser Ablation in regards to Acne Inversa?
3) How much will the disease spread over my body? I have read that it is not contagious, however, does this apply to only other people, or is it not contagious within your own body, ie. selected areas of my body have been predisposed for the disease to occur in?
4) If I opt for skin grafts, can these be done over a large portion of my body? ie. buttocks? Is the option of skin grafting a reasonable response to the problem of Acne Inversa? As I have read that surgery should be performed earlier rather than later, is this a subject I should seriously consider now, before it gets worse?