This is very common in transplant recipients. It is often caused or exacerbated by the prednisone that recipients are taking. Immediately after the transplant surgery there is generally not a problem as recipients are placed on a standard prophylactic antibiotic such as Bactrim. Bactrim happens to be one treatment for acne. It is thought that the Bactrim suppresses the acne initially. Once the Bactrim is discontinued, (and the prednisone is continued) acne can worsen. Acne that is caused by prednisone can be difficult to treat. You should clean your face with a mild soap and water once to twice a day and use only oil-free, noncomedogenic (comedone is a type of acne lesion) moisturizers and makeups. Treatment may consist of topical medications applied to the face daily such as retinoids, topical antibiotics or benzyl peroxides. Many times, oral antibiotics are required. These antibiotics must be chosen carefully so as not to interact with immunosuppressive medications that the transplant recipient is taking.

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International Transplant Skin Cancer Collaborative
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