Acne is a persistent inflammatory dermatological condition commonly observed in adolescents. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) provides a significant antiseptic effect, inhibits the excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and restores the proper functioning of the antioxidant system.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate CAP anti-inflammatory efficacy against moderate acne.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study involved 26 patients aged 14 to 18 years diagnosed with moderate acne, with a disease history beyond one year and a DIA score of 8.92±0.67 points. All patients received CAP monotherapy and completed a full blood count and CRP concentration assessment.

RESULTS

Following CAP monotherapy, the complete clinical response was attained in 88.46% of patients (DIA 0 — 65.38%, DIA 75 — 23.08%), with improvement observed in 3 patients (11.54%) and without side effects reported. Prior to the initiation of therapy, leukocyte count was (8.58±0.37)∙10⁹/L, granulocyte count was (4.88±0.93)∙10⁹/L, lymphocyte count was (2.41±0.48)∙10⁹/L, platelet count was (310.58±9.98)∙10⁹/L, and mean platelet volume (MPV) was 10.18±0.58 fl, all within reference ranges. The calculated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were 2.04±0.28 and 133.72±25.16, respectively. Average CRP levels before therapy were marginally elevated compared to the reference values of 5.88±1.08 mg/L. At the end of the CAP course, the normalization of the CRP level was observed at 2.74±1.95 mg/L (p<0.002), alongside a reduction in NLR and PLR (1.57±0.33, p<0.0003 and 120.33±17.32, p<0.011 respectively), and a decrease in MPV (9.78±0.28 vial, p<0.002), indicating the absence of an inflammatory process.

CONCLUSION

CAP monotherapy for moderate acne helps inhibit the inflammatory response. Hematological indicators (MPV, NLR, and PLR) can mark the acne severity and demonstrate treatment efficacy.