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Is rosacea connected to other diseases?

Researchers are looking into whether the acne-like skin condition has links to other medical illnesses.
/ Source: TODAY

Rosacea is a common skin disease with three facial symptoms, that often get mistaken for adult acne: flushing, visible blood vessels, and puss-filled pimples. More than 16 million Americans struggle with this skin condition, according to the National Rosacea Society, yet most don't know about it.

Related: Does dirty skin give you acne?

Many people wonder if rosascea is linked to other diseases. Recently, headlines have linked the skin condition with other diseases like multiple sclerosis, celiac disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.

In reality, what all of these diseases have in common is underlying systemic inflammation. Researchers from Denmark have found that there is some genetic overlap between these diseases, which makes them wonder if rosacea could be an autoimmune disease.

Related: Why merlot turns your cheeks red, and more rosacea question answered

It's still too early to know for sure, but these new findings may lead scientists toward important advances in therapy. If you think you might have rosacea, consult a board-certified dermatologist about next steps for treatment.

To learn more, watch the above video with NBC medical contributor Dr. Natalie Azar.