Canada: Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness and scaling, often affecting areas with higher concentrations of sebaceous glands. It's known to have a relapsing-remitting nature in adults, impacting their quality of life. While first-line treatments typically involve topical antifungals or corticosteroids, a recent systematic review published in the Journal Of The American Academy Of Dermatology has shed light on the potential effectiveness of oral isotretinoin in treating moderate to severe cases of SD.


Aliyah King and his team conducted a systematic review to assess the efficacy of oral isotretinoin as a treatment option for SD. The study aimed to explore whether isotretinoin, commonly used for moderate-to-severe acne due to its sebum-reducing properties, could also benefit patients with moderate to severe SD. The researchers evaluated the outcomes of patients treated with isotretinoin and examined its impact on symptom relief and quality of life.
The study found that participants who received oral isotretinoin reported significant improvements in their quality of life and a reduction in their SD symptoms. Many individuals achieved complete or excellent clearance of their symptoms, indicating a promising treatment option for those with moderate to severe SD. Notably, oral isotretinoin demonstrated superior effectiveness when compared to other treatments such as oral itraconazole, anti-fungal shampoo, and salicylic acid–containing soap.
This research underscores the potential benefits of using oral isotretinoin as a therapeutic approach for individuals dealing with moderate to severe seborrheic dermatitis. By showing enhanced symptom relief and an improved quality of life, isotretinoin may offer an alternative solution for patients who have not responded well to other treatments. Its ability to reduce sebum production might play a crucial role in addressing the underlying causes of SD, which are linked to factors such as Malassezia spp. colonization and skin surface lipids.
The systematic review suggests that oral isotretinoin could be a promising option for individuals grappling with moderate to severe seborrheic dermatitis. As a chronic condition that can impact one's well-being, finding effective treatments is essential. While further research and clinical trials are needed to validate these findings and establish the optimal dosing and duration of isotretinoin treatment for SD, this study opens up new avenues for improving the lives of patients dealing with this skin condition.
Reference:
King, A., Tan, M. G., Kirshen, C., & Tolkachjov, S. N. (2023). Isotretinoin for the management of moderate-to-severe seborrheic dermatitis: a systematic review. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2023.07.010