Arthritis precipitated by isotretinoin treatment for acne vulgaris.
We describe the case of a 21-year-old woman who developed biopsy proven seronegative oligoarthritis in association with isotretinoin treatment for acne vulgaris. Elevated levels of antinuclear antibody accompanied joint disease and resolution occurred over a 6-month period. Isotretinoin, an orally active derivative of vitamin A, has been associated with reported arthritis, arthralgia, myalgia, vasculitis and skeletal and soft tissue calcification. We review the literature and discuss the possible association between isotretinoin and immune dysfunction. The etiology of arthritis associated with vitamin A analog treatment remains obscure.
Rheumatology Department, Westminster Hospital, London, UK.
R A
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Hughes
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D000974:Antibodies, Antinuclear / Q000032:analysis; D001168:Arthritis / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000276:immunology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015474:Isotretinoin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013585:Synovitis / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000276:immunology
D000974:Antibodies, Antinuclear; D015474:Isotretinoin