Analyzing the Efficacy of Isotretinoin in Treating Dissecting Cellulitis: A Literature Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is a primary scarring alopecia. Isotretinoin is commonly referenced in the literature as a treatment for dissecting cellulitis. The objective of this article was to conduct a review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of isotretinoin for treating dissecting cellulitis of the scalp.

METHODS:

The following databases were searched for articles prior to 23 June, 2019: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Multi-patient studies (more than three) that reported on the administration of isotretinoin for dissecting cellulitis were included. A pooled meta-analysis for improvement of disease burden after isotretinoin administration in patients with dissecting cellulitis of the scalp was performed. A fixed-effects model was used.

RESULTS:

Five articles were ultimately used for the quantitative meta-analysis. The overall efficacy rate of isotretinoin in treating dissecting cellulitis of the scalp was estimated to be 0.9 with a 95% confidence interval (0.81-0.97). The sensitivity analysis suggested that the overall efficacy is still very high, with a range of 0.83-0.94. Recurrence was seen in 24% (6/25) of patients. Common associated diseases amongst patients with dissecting cellulitis of the scalp were acne conglobata 20% (30/151) and hidradenitis suppurativa 19% (11/72).

CONCLUSIONS:

Isotretinoin is an effective treatment for improving symptoms of dissecting cellulitis of the scalp. Disease recurrence is a common finding for those who undergo successful treatment.

• Authors: William Guo, Chencan Zhu, Gregg Stevens, David Silverstein
• Journal: Drugs in R&D (Drugs R D) Vol. 21 Issue 1 Pg. 29-37 (Mar 2021) ISSN: 1179-6901 [Electronic] New Zealand
• PMID: 33387328 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review)

Chemical References

• Dermatologic Agents
• Isotretinoin

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Alopecia (complications, drug therapy)
• Cellulitis (complications, drug therapy)
• Child
• Dermatologic Agents (therapeutic use)
• Female
• Humans
• Isotretinoin (therapeutic use)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Recurrence
• Retrospective Studies
• Scalp Dermatoses (drug therapy)
• Treatment Outcome
• Young Adult