The effect of isotretinoin on retinol-binding protein 4, leptin, adiponectin and insulin resistance in acne vulgaris patients.

BACKGROUND

The effect of isotretinoin (ISO) on adipokines and insulin resistance has been investigated in a few studies, and the results are conflicting.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ISO treatment on insulin resistance and adipokines.

METHODS

Thirty-three patients with acne vulgaris and a control group of 30 healthy volunteers were included in our study. Screening for the biochemical parameters was performed just before the initiation and after 3 months of ISO treatment.

RESULTS

In the acne group, basal leptin levels were significantly lower (p = 0.003) and basal adiponectin levels significantly higher (p = 0.008) compared with the control group. After ISO treatment, leptin levels (p = 0.0005) decreased and adiponectin levels (p = 0.003) increased significantly. However, measurements of fasting blood glucose, insulin, C peptide, retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4), homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance and BMI did not differ after ISO treatment.

CONCLUSION

ISO may affect leptin and adiponectin levels. It does not, however, affect insulin resistance and RBP4 levels.