Azelaic acid gel 15%: clinical versatility in the treatment of rosacea.

Abstract

There are numerous proposed but contested components involved in the pathophysiology of rosacea, including inflammatory mediators, reactive oxygen species (ROS) released by neutrophils, and microbial components. Ideal comprehensive rosacea management should address these components. Azelaic acid (AzA), a naturally occurring substance, has many proposed mechanisms of action--antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory/antioxidant, and keratinolytic--that address the proposed components of rosacea pathophysiology and has demonstrated efficacy in subtype 2 rosacea. In a roundtable discussion, information leaders discussed the pathophysiology of rosacea and other issues of importance to successful rosacea management, such as skin care regimens, quality of life (QOL), and compliance.