The Efficacy of Oral Isotretinoin Versus Cyproterone Compound in Female Patients With Acne and the Triad of Cutaneous Hyperandrogenism: A Randomized Clinical Trial

In a study involving 30 female patients with SAHA syndrome, the effectiveness of oral isotretinoin was compared to cyproterone compound for treating nodulocystic acne and symptoms of cutaneous hyperandrogenism. The trial, which ran from April 2012 to February 2014, found no significant difference in the Acne Severity Index (ASI) scores between the two treatments at the end of the study, despite an earlier improvement with isotretinoin at the end of the first month. Both treatments were deemed similarly effective, and side effects were generally mild, with only two subjects discontinuing due to severe side effects. The study concluded that hormonal therapy with cyproterone compound is as effective as non-hormonal isotretinoin for this patient group, suggesting that both can be used for treatment. However, the study faced limitations such as case selection and the cost and availability of drugs, indicating a need for further research.