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Review
. 2024 May;14(5):1079-1091.
doi: 10.1007/s13555-024-01169-1. Epub 2024 May 3.

Topical and Systemic Retinoids in the Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Elisa Molinelli #  1 , Helena Gioacchini #  1 , Andrea Marani #  1 , Giulio Rizzetto  1 , Daisy Gambini  1 , Edoardo De Simoni  2 , Annamaria Offidani  1 , Oriana Simonetti  1
Affiliations
Review

Topical and Systemic Retinoids in the Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Elisa Molinelli et al. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2024 May.

Abstract

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating chronic skin disorder characterized by painful inflammatory nodules, abscesses and sinus tracts involving intertriginous areas and has an adverse impact on patient quality of life. Over the past decade, the therapeutic options of HS have increased significantly to comprise multiple modalities, including topical medication, systemic therapies (mainly antibiotics, retinoids, and biologics), surgical approaches, and lifestyle modifications. Biologics alone or in combination with surgery remain the treatment of choice for moderate to severe disease. However, non-biologic therapies (including retinoids) may be used as monotherapy for mild disease and in combination with biologics and surgical treatment in moderate to severe disease. Retinoids, specifically isotretinoin, acitretin, and alitretinoin, are historically used in the management of HS, supported by anecdotal evidence and with variable treatment response. Although the current American and European guidelines offer different recommendations on the use of retinoids in HS, retinoids remain a valuable ally in HS management. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current scientific literature on retinoid therapy (topical and systemic) in HS, highlighting disparities in mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety to clarify their role in HS treatment.

Keywords: Acitretin; Alitretinoin; Hidradenitis suppurativa; Isotretinoin; Retinoids; Topical retinoids.

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Conflict of interest statement

Elisa Molinelli, Helena Gioacchini, Andrea Marani, Daisy Gambini, Giulio Rizzetto, Edoardo De Simoni, Annamaria Offidani, Oriana Simonetti have nothing to disclose.

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