Cystic acne is classified as which grade of acne?

Cystic acne is classified as grade IV, which represents the most severe level of acne. This type of acne is characterized by deep, inflamed cysts that can lead to painful nodules and significant scarring. The presence of cysts indicates that the acne is not only numerous and inflamed but also deeply rooted in the skin tissue, often requiring more intensive and specialized treatments.

In contrast, lower grades of acne, such as I, II, and III, involve fewer lesions and less severity. Grade I typically includes minor comedones and occasional papules; grade II may present with more inflamed lesions and some pustules; while grade III can be a mix of papules and pustules but lacks the deep cystic involvement that defines grade IV. Therefore, understanding the characteristics associated with each grade helps in identifying cystic acne as the most severe form, solidifying its classification under grade IV.