Papulopustular

Papulopustular is a dermatological term used to describe skin lesions that combine papules and pustules. A papule is a small, raised, solid lesion, while a pustule is a raised lesion containing pus. The term refers to morphology rather than a single disease and is used to describe inflammatory eruptions across several conditions. The pattern is especially associated with acne vulgaris and rosacea, including the papulopustular form of rosacea, which presents with facial redness (erythema) and multiple inflamed papules and pustules on the central face.

Other conditions that can have papulopustular components include folliculitis, perioral dermatitis, and some drug-induced eruptions. The distribution, onset, and accompanying signs (such as comedones, flushing, or ocular involvement) help distinguish among causes. Diagnosis is typically clinical, based on history and examination; laboratory tests or cultures may be used if infection, follicular inflammation, or atypical presentations raise concern.

Management depends on the underlying condition. In acne, approaches include topical retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, and, for more extensive disease, oral antibiotics or isotretinoin. In papulopustular rosacea, first-line therapies include topical metronidazole, azelaic acid, or ivermectin, with low-dose oral doxycycline considered for more persistent disease; trigger avoidance and sun protection are important. General skin care, gentle cleansing, and avoidance of irritants support outcomes. The prognosis varies by disease; papulopustular lesions may recur and require ongoing, condition-specific management.