Which structures are primarily involved in the condition known as acne vulgaris?

Acne vulgaris is primarily associated with the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing sebum, an oily substance that helps to lubricate the skin and hair. When these glands become overactive or clogged, they can lead to an accumulation of oil and dead skin cells, promoting the growth of bacteria and resulting in the characteristic lesions of acne, such as pimples and cysts.

While other structures like hair follicles are also involved in the condition (as acne often forms around hair follicles where sebaceous glands are located), the sebaceous glands are fundamentally the source of the oil production that contributes to the blockage and inflammation associated with acne. This is why identifying the sebaceous glands as the primary structures involved provides a clearer understanding of the pathophysiology of acne vulgaris.

The sweat glands do not play a direct role in acne formation, and while the dermis supports the structure of the skin, it is not specifically implicated in the mechanisms that lead to acne. Therefore, focusing on the sebaceous glands highlights the main contributor to the condition.