Evaluation of Cost-Effectiveness and Patient Satisfaction of Topical, Topical Plus Systemic, and Topical Plus Laser Treatment in Patients with Acne Vulgaris

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease and can reduce the quality of life and cause psychological distress. This study evaluated the clinical effectiveness, patient satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness of topical monotherapy, topical plus systemic, and topical plus laser treatment in patients with acne vulgaris. A quantitative study with a prospective cohort design was conducted at Erha clinic from April 2024 to March 2025. Data determining clinical efficacy, patient satisfaction, treatment cost and cost-effectiveness using lesion counting, Investigator Global Acne (IGA) scale, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and total cost calculations were measured at baseline, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks of treatment, and analysed using IBM SPSS version 22. Patients in topical monotherapy, topical plus systemic, and topical plus laser group recorded a median baseline lesion of 15 (14-16), 15 (15-17), and 21 (20-22), respectively, and 96.6% had mild to moderate acne, 90% moderate acne, and 76.7% severe acne based on IGA scores. These treatment modalities reduced 15 lesions for topical monotherapy, 15 lesions for topical plus systemic, and 21 lesions for topical plus laser, respectively, with 100% of topical monotherapy and topical plus laser, and 96.7% of topical plus systemic group achieving clear skin at week 12. The topical plus laser treatment provided the greatest and fastest acne lesion improvement and satisfaction, but at the highest cost. The choice of acne therapy should consider the balance between clinical effectiveness and cost-efficiency, especially in Southeast Asia with limited access and resources.