Atypical keloids after dermabrasion of patients taking isotretinoin

Six patients underwent dermabrasion while on or having recently completed isotretinoin (Accutane) therapy. All patients developed keloids in atypical locations; the keloids eventually responded to topical or intralesional steroid therapy. Retinoids have a modulatory effect on connective tissue metabolism, including suppression of collagenase, which may enhance keloid formation. Dermabrasion should be delayed in those patients taking or recently on isotretinoin therapy.