Recognizing and Managing Isotretinoin-Induced Acne Fulminans without Systemic Symptoms
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of Dermatology for Physician Assistants
Abstract
Abstract
This report describes the case of a 14-year-old female patient who presented with severe nodulocystic acne on the face that started 6 to 8 weeks into treatment with isotretinoin. The patient complained of intermittent arthralgias but denied other systemic symptoms. She was diagnosed with acne fulminans without systemic symptoms induced by isotretinoin. She discontinued this medication and began a prolonged prednisone taper. As this began to mitigate the acute inflammation, isotretinoin was re-initiated and gradually up-titrated to induce long-term control of her acne. Acne fulminans has multiple clinical manifestations, thus making it difficult to distinguish at times. Management of this condition can also be challenging and requires a personalized approach. Isotretinoin-induced acne fulminans is increasing in incidence due to more widespread treatment of acne vulgaris with this medication. The prompt recognition and management of this adverse effect of isotretinoin can prevent it from progressing into fulminant disease, and diminish the number of disfiguring scars.
First Page
19
Last Page
23
DOI
10.58744/001c.70405
Publication Date
12-2022
Recommended Citation
Marsh, Bryn M. MPAS, PA-C1,a. Recognizing and Managing Isotretinoin-Induced Acne Fulminans without Systemic Symptoms. Journal of Dermatology for Physician Assistants 16(1):p 19-23, Winter 2022.
Comments
Marsh, Bryn M. MPAS, PA-C1,a. Recognizing and Managing Isotretinoin-Induced Acne Fulminans without Systemic Symptoms. Journal of Dermatology for Physician Assistants 16(1):p 19-23, Winter 2022.
DOI: 10.58744/001c.70405