TLDR Isotretinoin treatment in teens with acne can cause hormonal changes, leading to menstrual irregularity and increased hirsutism.
The study assessed the effects of isotretinoin on hirsutism, menstrual cycle, and hormonal response in 76 adolescents with acne vulgaris. It was found that isotretinoin treatment led to changes in adrenal hormone levels, with significant differences in menstrual irregularity and hirsutism rates observed at the third and sixth months of treatment. Free testosterone, total testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels increased, while sex hormone-binding globulin levels decreased over the treatment period. These hormonal changes were associated with the development of menstrual irregularity and hirsutism during treatment follow-ups.
76 citations
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December 2009 in “Clinics in Dermatology” Hormonal treatments can help with acne but are not the first choice due to side effects and the need for careful patient selection.
117 citations
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February 2017 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Oral spironolactone's effectiveness for adult female acne is not well-supported by strong evidence.
99 citations
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December 2010 in “Journal of The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” The document concludes that certain genetic mutations and dietary factors are involved in acne development, and treatments like isotretinoin and diet changes can help manage it.
1514 citations
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December 2011 in “Fertility and sterility” Experts agree that PCOS affects women's health in complex ways, but more research is needed to understand and treat it effectively.
76 citations
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January 2007 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Women with PCOS often have skin problems like excessive hair, acne, hair loss, and dark patches, which can be treated with hormonal and non-hormonal therapies.