Re-evaluating the necessity of routine laboratory monitoring during isotretinoin therapy for acne

Abstract

In this letter, we discuss the topic of necessity of routine laboratory monitoring during isotretinoin treatment for acne. According to Park and colleagues, it is advisable to monitor the levels of triglycerides, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase every 5 to 6 months. Additionally, the levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein should be checked within the first two months of treatment. Isotretinoin is a commonly prescribed agent mainly used to treat acne. Despite its high effectiveness, it necessitates regular monitoring of laboratory parameters due to its side effect profile. Currently, there remains a lack of consensus on the appropriate frequency for monitoring these parameters during treatment with isotretinoin. This letter will provide insight into this complex and controversial topic. Based on existing literature, we concluded that the incidence of changes in lipid and liver aminotransferase levels during isotretinoin treatment for acne was low and likely clinically insignificant. For generally healthy people, we recommend testing lipid and liver profiles once at baseline and a second time at the peak dosage. However, frequent testing might still be beneficial in certain populations of patients.