Absence of Efficacy of Oral Isotretinoin in Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Retrospective Study Based on Patients’ Outcome Assessment

Abstract

<i>Background:</i> In analogy to acne, oral isotretinoin has been considered in the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). <i>Objectives:</i> To assess the efficacy of oral isotretinoin according to patients. <i>Methods:</i> From 1999 to 2006, 358 consecutive HS patients were interviewed and examined. A standardized record of the data was performed for each patient during the first consultation. Patients were questioned regarding the effect of previous treatment with oral isotretinoin: patients had to grade the effect as either ‘improved’, ‘no effect’ or ‘worse’. <i>Results:</i> Fourteen patients (16.1%) declared an improvement, 67 patients (77%) no effect and 6 patients (6.9%) worsening of HS. <i>Conclusion:</i> According to our patients, oral isotretinoin is not effective in the treatment of HS.