The Effect of Isotretinoin on Retinol-Binding Protein 4, Leptin, Adiponectin and Insulin Resistance in Acne Vulgaris Patients

Abstract

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 re-sistance 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. (C) 20155. Karger AG, Basel