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The effect of isotretinoin treatment on plasma homocysteine levels in acne vulgaris
Article first published online: 8 MAR 2010
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2010.03778.x
© 2010 The Author(s). Journal compilation © 2010 British Association of Dermatologists
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How to Cite
Roodsari, M. R., Akbari, M. R., Sarrafi-rad, N., Saeedi, M., Gheisari, M. and Kavand, S. (2010), The effect of isotretinoin treatment on plasma homocysteine levels in acne vulgaris. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 35: 624–626. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2010.03778.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 2 JUL 2010
- Article first published online: 8 MAR 2010
- Accepted for publication 26 May 2009
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Summary
Isotretinoin has revolutionized the treatment of acne by improving the cosmetic outcome and decreasing the psychological damage. However, use of isotretinoin is associated with significant side-effects such as mucocutaneous involvement, dyslipidaemia and liver dysfunction, as indicated by increases in liver enzymes. The responsible enzyme for homocysteine metabolism, cystathionine-β-synthase, might also be affected by isotretinoin-induced liver dysfunction, which leads to hyperhomocysteinaemia, an independent risk factor for thrombovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate homocysteine levels and the responsible vitamins for its metabolism in patients with moderate to severe acne vulgaris on isotretinoin treatment, before and after treatment. We found increased level of homocysteine in patients after 2 months of taking isotretinoin. Our findings suggest that isotretinoin may increase the risk of cardiovascular disorders by causing hyperhomocysteinaemia.