Analysis of acne-related judicial precedents from 1997 to 2018 in South Korea

Abstract

Medicolegal disputes are increasing in practical medicine. Medications or procedures related to acne could lead to medical malpractice. This study analyzed medical litigation associated with acne in South Korea. Acne-related judgments were searched using the Supreme Court of Korea's Written Judgment Management System based on the keyword "acne". Eleven cases were selected; eight cases were related to acne scar and three cases were related to acne. Treatment modalities such as peeling, laser treatment, photodynamic therapy and antibiotics resulted in lawsuits. Claimed sequelae of the treatments were hyperpigmentation, scar worsening, erythema, skin bumps and liver transplant. Eight cases were awarded to the plaintiff, and the others were dismissed. This study shows that various treatments for acne can cause medical disputes.