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[Isotretinoin (RoAccutane) embryopathy. A case report]
H Pilorget1, J L Alessandri, A Montbrun
1Service de Néonatologie et Réanimation Néonatale et Pédiatrique, Centre Hospitalier, Saint-Denis, La Réunion.
Summary
Retinoids, vitamin A derivatives used in dermatology, can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. This includes malformations of the ear, brain, and heart in newborns.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Teratology
Background:
- Retinoids are synthetic vitamin A derivatives widely prescribed in dermatology.
- Their use in women of childbearing age necessitates caution due to potential teratogenic effects.
Observation:
- A neonatal case linked to isotretinoin (RoAccutane) highlights severe malformations.
- Embryopathy primarily affects the external ear, brain, and heart.
Findings:
- Isotretinoin exposure during pregnancy can lead to significant congenital abnormalities.
- A proposed aetiopathological mechanism involves the interaction between isotretinoin and Hox genes.
Implications:
- Antenatal exposure to this potent teratogen can result in spontaneous abortions or pregnancy interruptions.
- Effective prophylactic measures are challenging due to the uncommon reporting of neonatal cases.