What statement would the nurse provide regarding the cause of extensive acne in a child who has recently reached puberty?

The cause of extensive acne in a child who has recently reached puberty is primarily linked to the influence of highly active sebaceous glands. During puberty, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes, leading to increased production of androgens, which are male hormones present in both males and females. These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, an oily substance that can accumulate and contribute to acne when it clogs hair follicles alongside dead skin cells and bacteria.

The increase in sebaceous gland activity in flush areas of the body, such as the face and back, makes these areas particularly prone to the development of acne. This process is natural and common during adolescence due to the surge in hormones that occurs around this developmental stage.

While other factors like poor hygiene can aggravate the condition, they are not the primary cause. Gonadotropin is involved in the regulation of sex hormones but does not directly cause acne. Androgens play a role in stimulating sebaceous glands but are part of the larger hormonal changes rather than a direct cause of acne itself. Therefore, the statement regarding the influence of highly active sebaceous glands accurately captures the immediate physiological response occurring during puberty that leads to extensive acne.