Pathophysiology of Rosacea

The pathophysiology underlying rosacea is an active area of investigation. A variety of mediators and mechanisms that trigger disease onset and progression have been implicated in this phenotypically heterogenous and clinically diverse condition. The frequent occurrence of rosacea in people with Celtic ancestry is consistent with a genetic predisposition in certain skin types. In addition to or in combination with genetic factors, the involvement of and connections between the immune, neuronal, and vascular systems are thought to contribute to the dysfunctional responses that lead to the clinical presentation of rosacea. Trigger factors may induce the release of inflammatory and neurogenic mediators from skin, neuronal, and immune cells. The multitude of responses results in the erythema and lesions of rosacea. An improved understanding of the underlying pathophysiology has the potential to lead to effective management.