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[Isotretinoin and adolescent depression]
L Misery1, N Feton-Danou, A Consoli
1Service de dermatologie, CHU de Brest, 5, avenue Foch, 29200 Brest, France. laurent.misery@chu-brest.fr
Annales De Dermatologie Et De Venereologie
|February 14, 2012
Summary
Severe acne patients on isotretinoin treatment do not face an increased risk of suicide. Psychological screening is recommended for adolescents with acne, but depression does not contraindicate isotretinoin use.
Area of Science:
- Psychodermatology
- Adolescent medicine
- Dermatology
Context:
- Isotretinoin is a treatment for severe, scarring acne resistant to other therapies.
- Concerns exist regarding a potential association between isotretinoin and suicide.
- Adolescent acne, especially severe forms, is linked to psychological distress.
Purpose:
- To investigate the association between isotretinoin use and suicidal tendencies in acne patients.
- To provide guidance on managing psychological disturbances in acne patients undergoing treatment.
Summary:
- Psychological disturbances, including depression and suicidal ideation, are common in adolescents with acne.
- Severe acne exacerbates psychological distress.
- The study found no evidence that isotretinoin increases the risk of suicide in patients.
Impact:
- Routine psychological screening is advised for all adolescents with acne.
- Isotretinoin prescription is not contraindicated for patients with a history of depression.
- This research clarifies the safety profile of isotretinoin regarding mental health outcomes.
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