Use of oral isotretinoin to treat acne in the public system: a hospital-based retrospective cohort

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Acne needs to be treated early to prevent negative psychosocial impacts. In severe or moderate forms, which tend to leave scars, oral isotretinoin is the first-line therapy. However, concern about its adverse events, especially in developed countries, delays effective treatment. In contrast, isotretinoin is widely prescribed in Brazilian private clinics. OBJECTIVES: To describe the use of isotretinoin for treating acne in a Brazilian public hospital, and to analyze whether its prescription is effective or belated. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective cohort study in a p...