Relapse of acne following isotretinoin treatment: a retrospective study of 405 patients.
BACKGROUND
Isotretinoin is the most effective systemic treatment option for patients with nodulocystic acne or acne vulgaris who have failed a treatment with systemic antibiotics.


METHODS
We conducted a retrospective study of 405 acne patients treated with isotretinoin to evaluate the incidence of recurrence after a course of at least 150 mg/kg of isotretinoin.


RESULTS
Of the 405 patients evaluated, 94 (23.2%) experienced relapses severe enough for the patient to request further medical management. Of the 94 patients, 76 (80.9%) relapsed within the first 2 years following completion of a course of isotretinoin.


CONCLUSIONS
This was a retrospective study at a single practice site.


CONCLUSIONS
Almost one-fifth of patients have a recurrence of acne within the first 2 years. Patients should be made aware of this information, as it will contribute to the development of accurate and appropriate expectations of therapy.
Liu
Austin
A
Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Yang
Deborah J
DJ
Gerhardstein
Peter C
PC
Hsu
Sylvia
S
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000473:pathology; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015474:Isotretinoin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007641:Keratolytic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D012008:Recurrence; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012737:Sex Factors; D055815:Young Adult
D007641:Keratolytic Agents; D015474:Isotretinoin