Final answer:
Sebaceous adenitis is an inflammation of the sebaceous glands, which produce sebum to lubricate and protect the skin and hair. This condition differs from acne, which is caused by the overproduction of sebum and infection of the glands.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sebaceous Adenitis and the Role of Sebaceous Glands
Sebaceous adenitis is a rare skin condition affecting the sebaceous glands, which are oil-producing glands located in the dermis layer of the skin. These glands produce sebum, a vital oily substance that helps to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair. Sebaceous glands are connected to hair follicles and release sebum onto the skin surface to protect and maintain the integrity of the skin. This natural secretion prevents water loss from the skin, especially in low-humidity environments, and provides antibacterial properties that inhibit microorganism growth on the skin surface.
Sebum production can be affected by hormonal changes, primarily during puberty, when the glands become more active. In sebaceous adenitis, the sebaceous glands become inflamed, which can lead to problems such as skin scaling and hair loss. This is distinct from the overproduction of sebum that can block hair follicles and contribute to conditions like acne, which involves the infection of sebaceous glands by bacteria such as Propionibacterium and Staphylococcus.