Evaluation of the clinical effects of isotretinoin on chronic rhinosinusitis.

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 long-term (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.