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Cytological and Genotoxic Effects of Systemic Isotretinoin on Oral Mucosa Cells
Alinda Uslu1, Hanife Guler Donmez1
1Department of Biology, Hacettepe University, Faculty of Science, Ankara, Türkiye.
Background:
Despite its widespread use in acne vulgaris treatment, the potential cytological and genotoxic effects of systemic isotretinoin on oral mucosal cells remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the cytological and genotoxic effects of systemic isotretinoin on oral mucosal cells.
Methods:
Buccal smear samples were collected from isotretinoin users (n = 20) and controls (n = 20). Cytomorphometric analyses (cell diameter (CD), nuclear diameter (ND), nuclear area (NA), cell area (CA), ND/CD, and NA/CA ratios) and cytological evaluations (nuclear degenerations, binucleation, perinuclear halos) were conducted using Papanicolaou staining. Micronucleus (MN) testing was performed on Feulgen-stained samples.
Results:
CD, ND, CA, and NA were significantly higher in the isotretinoin group (p < 0.05), while the ND/CD ratio was reduced (p < 0.05). MN scores and the presence of micronucleated cells (MNed cells) were significantly increased in isotretinoin users (p < 0.05), indicating genotoxic effects. The isotretinoin group showed a lower mean pH (5.8) than controls (6.7) (p < 0.001). No significant differences were linked to isotretinoin duration (less than 6 months (6<) vs. 6 months or more (6≥)) (p > 0.05).
Conclusions:
Isotretinoin use induces cytological changes, including increased cell and nuclear sizes, and genotoxic effects, as evidenced by elevated MN formation. Monitoring oral mucosal alterations in isotretinoin users may provide insights into potential side effects.
Insights
Systemic isotretinoin use in acne treatment causes significant changes in oral mucosal cells, including increased cell size and genotoxic effects like elevated micronucleus formation. Oral health monitoring is recommended for isotretinoin users.
Area of Science:
- Oral pathology
- Dermatology
- Genotoxicology
Background:
- Systemic isotretinoin is widely used for acne vulgaris.
- Its effects on oral mucosal cells are not well understood.
- This study investigates cytological and genotoxic impacts on oral cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate cytological alterations in oral mucosal cells of isotretinoin users.
- To assess the genotoxic potential of systemic isotretinoin on these cells.
- To correlate oral cell changes with isotretinoin treatment.
Main Methods:
- Collected buccal smears from 20 isotretinoin users and 20 controls.
- Performed cytomorphometric analyses (cell and nuclear dimensions) and cytological evaluations.
- Conducted micronucleus (MN) testing on oral cells.
Main Results:
- Isotretinoin users showed significantly increased cell diameter, nuclear diameter, cell area, and nuclear area.
- Micronucleus scores and micronucleated cells were significantly elevated in the isotretinoin group, indicating genotoxicity.
- Oral pH was lower in isotretinoin users (5.8) compared to controls (6.7).
Conclusions:
- Isotretinoin treatment induces significant cytological changes in oral mucosal cells.
- Genotoxic effects, evidenced by increased micronucleus formation, are associated with isotretinoin use.
- Monitoring oral mucosa is advised for patients using isotretinoin to detect potential side effects.
