Rothmund-Thomson Syndrome Medication
- Author: Sylvia Hsu, MD; Chief Editor: Dirk M Elston, MD more...
Medication Summary
The goals of pharmacotherapy for Rothmund-Thomson syndrome (poikiloderma congenitale) are to reduce morbidity and to prevent complications.
Retinoids
Class Summary
These agents decrease the cohesiveness of abnormal hyperproliferative keratinocytes, and they may reduce the potential for malignant degeneration. They also modulate keratinocyte differentiation.
Isotretinoin (Accutane)
Synthetic 13-cis isomer of the naturally occurring tretinoin (trans -retinoic acid). Approved for use in severe recalcitrant nodular acne. Recent review by Allison et al revealed clearing in 5 of 6 pediatric patients with pityriasis rubra pilaris within 6 mo.
A US Food and Drug Administration–mandated registry is now in place for all individuals prescribing, dispensing, or taking isotretinoin. For more information on this registry, see iPLEDGE. This registry aims to further decrease the risk of pregnancy and other unwanted and potentially dangerous adverse effects during a course of isotretinoin therapy.
Tretinoin topical (Avita, Retin-A)
Inhibits microcomedo formation and eliminates lesions. Makes keratinocytes in sebaceous follicles less adherent and easier to remove. Available as 0.025%, 0.05%, and 0.1% creams. Also available as 0.01% and 0.025% gels.
Acitretin (Soriatane)
Metabolite of etretinate and related to both retinoic acid and retinol (vitamin A). Mechanism of action unknown. However, thought to exert therapeutic effect by modulating keratinocyte differentiation, keratinocyte hyperproliferation, and tissue infiltration by inflammatory cells. Approved for treatment of severe psoriasis.
Keratolytic
Class Summary
This agent causes cornified epithelium to swell, soften, macerate, and then desquamate.
Salicylic acid topical (Dr. Scholl's)
By dissolving the intercellular cement substance, salicylic acid produces desquamation of the horny layer of skin, while not affecting the structure of viable epidermis.
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