Serum clusterin levels, postadolescent acne, and the link to metabolic syndrome: exploring the interplay of factors

Abstract

Background Clusterin (CLU) is a multifunctional glycoprotein with a multiplicity of physiologic and pathologic effects. A role in inflammatory diseases and metabolic syndrome (MetS) components has been suggested. Objectives The objective was to investigate serum CLU and lipids levels, blood pressure, and BMI in patients with postadolescent acne, and demonstrate any possible interactions between those conditions. Patients and methods A case–control study including 50 postadolescent acne patients and 30 matched controls was performed to estimate serum levels of CLU and lipids in all participants together with the full clinical dermatological and general examination. Results Significantly elevated levels of CLU were detected in sera of postadolescent acne patients versus controls, correlating positively with acne severity. Patients were found to have higher BMI and blood pressure values than controls. Patients diagnosed with MetS had considerably greater serum CLU levels than those who did not. CLU showed high accuracy in diagnosing postadolescent acne and MetS in those patients. Conclusions CLU levels in the sera of patients with postadolescent acne may play an integral role in the pathophysiology of the disease and the development of MetS in these patients.