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Isotretinoin and the eye: A review for the dermatologist
Author(s) -
RuizLozano Raul E.,
HernándezCamarena Julio C.,
GarzaGarza Lucas A.,
BustamanteArias Andres,
ColoradoZavala Maria F.,
Cardenasde la Garza Jesus Alberto
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
dermatologic therapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.595
H-Index - 68
eISSN - 1529-8019
pISSN - 1396-0296
DOI - 10.1111/dth.14029
Subject(s) - isotretinoin , medicine , dermatology , acne , adverse effect , disease , ophthalmology , pathology
Due to the prevalence of acne vulgaris, isotretinoin is one of the most prescribed drugs among physicians and dermatologists. Although exhibiting an adequate safety profile, adverse events secondary to isotretinoin use are common. Before prescribing isotretinoin, physicians usually inquire about pregnancy and perform serologic tests including cholesterol, triglycerides, and liver enzymes. Ocular manifestations are commonly neglected. Despite being generally mild, ocular manifestations related to either topical or systemic isotretinoin may cause important ocular morbidity. The ocular surface is the most affected site within the eye; however, retinal and optic nerve disease also have been documented. Evaporative dry eye disease, which may range from mild to severe, is the most common adverse ocular effect associated with isotretinoin use. The aim of this review is to present an up‐to‐date overview for the dermatologist about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the ocular side effects of isotretinoin, and when to refer to the eye specialist.