Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the clinical effects of
isotretinoin (13-cis-retinoic acid), a derivative of retinoic acid,
on the clinical features of chronic rhinosinusitis.
Patients and Methods: The study group included 25 chronic
rhinosinusitis patients (16 females, 9 males; mean age
25.2±6.8 years; range 15 to 25 years) who were on isotretinoin
for acne treatment, while the control group consisted of 25
chronic rhinosinusitis patients (15 females, 10 males; mean
age 25.2±6.8 years; range 15 to 25 years) who were not on
isotretinoin treatment. The patients’ symptom scores in visual
analog scale (VAS), Lanza and Kennedy nasal endoscopic
scores and Newman computed tomography (CT) scores were
obtained in order to evaluate the their symptom, examination
and radiological findings. These patients’ symptom and
examination results were evaluated first day, week two and
at months 3-5 and 6-10. Paranasal sinus CT results were
studied first day and at months 6-10.
Results: In the group of patients being administered
isotretinoin, no significant change in the mean symptom and
examination scores was detected during the acute phase
(week 2), while there was a significant regression in the longterm
(months 3-5 and 6-10). There was a significant regression
in the mean CT score after isotretinoin therapy. In the control
group no significant change was seen in any of the scores. The
number of acute sinusitis attacks were significantly lower in
the isotretinoin group than in the control group. No significant
difference was found between the two groups in terms of the
duration of the healing period of acute sinusitis attacks.
Conclusion: We conclude that the long-term administration
of isotretinoin has positive effects on the clinical results of
chronic rhinosinusitis
