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[Enduring oral dryness after acne treatment]
C P Bots1, A van Nieuw Amerongen, H S Brand
1Afdeling Tandheelkundige Basiswetenschappen, sectie Orale Biochemie van het Academisch Centrum Tandheelkunde Amsterdam (ACTA). c.bots.obc.acta@med.vu.nl
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Tandheelkunde
|August 2, 2003
Summary
Systemic retinoid use in a young adult led to persistent dry mouth (xerostomia) and reduced salivary flow. Salivary characteristics suggest altered gland function, potentially linked to isotretinoin treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oral Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Medications frequently impact salivary flow rate.
- Systemic retinoids, vitamin A derivatives, are used for various dermatological conditions.
Observation:
- A 26-year-old patient developed irreversible xerostomia after using systemic retinoid (isotretinoin) at age 18.
- Monitoring over three years revealed high unstimulated whole saliva viscosity, indicating reduced parotid gland contribution and high mucin concentration.
- Salivary flow rate was minimally stimulated by parafilm but normalized upon application of a 4% citric acid solution.
Findings:
- The patient's severe oral dryness and low resting salivary flow rate were unexplained by other medical history factors.
- The persistent xerostomia and altered salivary parameters were concluded to be potentially related to prior isotretinoin (Roaccutane) use.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential long-term side effect of systemic retinoids on salivary function.
- It is recommended to record and monitor medication history in patients experiencing sudden oral health changes, particularly xerostomia.