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Sebaceous Gland Function Test – Methods & Uses

The sebaceous gland function test measures the activity of the sebaceous glands in the skin. It helps diagnose conditions such as acne or seborrhoeic dermatitis.

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The sebaceous gland function test measures the activity of the sebaceous glands in the skin. It helps diagnose conditions such as acne or seborrhoeic dermatitis.

What is the Sebaceous Gland Function Test?

The sebaceous gland function test is a diagnostic procedure in dermatology used to assess the function and activity of the sebaceous glands (Glandulae sebaceae) in the skin. Sebaceous glands are small glands in the skin that produce an oily substance called sebum. Sebum protects the skin surface, helps regulate moisture, and has antimicrobial properties. Both overproduction and underproduction of sebum can contribute to various skin conditions.

When is the Test Used?

The sebaceous gland function test is applied in a variety of clinical situations:

Acne vulgaris: Excess sebum production is a key factor in the development of acne.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis: A condition characterised by excessive sebum secretion and scaling.
Rosacea: Changes in sebaceous gland function may play a role in this chronic inflammatory skin condition.
Dry skin (sebostasis): Reduced sebum production can lead to dry, itchy skin.
Hormonal disorders: Since androgens regulate sebum production, the test can be useful when hormonal imbalances are suspected.
Evaluation of skincare products or therapies: In dermatological research, the test is used to measure the effect of treatments on sebaceous gland activity.

How Does the Test Work?

Several methods are available to measure sebaceous gland function. The most commonly used are:

Sebummetry (Sebumetry)

Sebummetry is the most widely used method. A dedicated Sebumeter device applies a transparent polymer film to the skin. The lipids in sebum alter the light transmittance of the film, and the measured change is used to calculate the amount of sebum in micrograms per square centimetre (µg/cm²). The test is non-invasive, painless, and delivers rapid results.

Sebutape Method

In this method, a specialised porous adhesive tape (Sebutape) is applied to the skin for a defined period. The pores of the tape become filled with sebum and appear opaque. Evaluation is performed using image analysis or light transmission. This method also provides information about the distribution of active follicular openings.

Gravimetric Method

Sebum is collected from the skin surface using a solvent or absorbent material and subsequently weighed. This method is highly precise but more time-consuming and is primarily used in research settings.

Photometric Method

Specialised devices measure the light reflectance of the skin, which is influenced by its lipid content. This method is often used in combination with other techniques.

Preparation and Procedure

Specific preparations are recommended to ensure reliable measurements:

The skin should not be washed, moisturised, or made up before the test (recommendation: at least 2 to 4 hours after the last skin cleansing).
The patient should acclimatise in a temperature-controlled room for a few minutes before measurement, as temperature and humidity influence sebum secretion.
Typical measurement sites include the forehead, nose, and chin (the T-zone) as well as the cheeks, as these areas are particularly rich in sebaceous glands.

Interpretation and Reference Values

Results are generally expressed in micrograms of sebum per square centimetre. Reference values vary depending on age, sex, body region, and the measuring device used. In general:

Elevated values indicate hyperseborrhoea, as seen in acne or seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Reduced values may suggest sebostasis (dry skin) or conditions such as ichthyosis.
Results are always interpreted in clinical context and in conjunction with other examination findings.

Significance and Clinical Value

The sebaceous gland function test is a valuable tool in dermatological diagnostics and research. It enables an objective and reproducible assessment of skin surface lipids and assists dermatologists in diagnosis and treatment planning. The test is particularly useful for monitoring the progress of therapies, such as treatment with retinoids or antiandrogens, providing objective evidence of therapeutic response.

References

Fluhr JW, Darlenski R, Surber C. Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functions. British Journal of Dermatology. 2008;159(1):23-34.
Zouboulis CC. Acne and sebaceous gland function. Clinics in Dermatology. 2004;22(5):360-366.
Berardesca E, Maibach HI. Racial differences in skin pathophysiology. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 1996;34(4):667-672.

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