A patient with chronic sacroiliitis undiagnosed for three years after isotretinoin use

Abstract

Abstract Background Isotretinoin (ISO) is a synthetic vitamin A derivative which has been used for treatment-resistant acne vulgaris. Although most musculoskeletal side effects of ISO are common, including myalgia, arthralgia, and back pain, sacroiliitis is one of the uncommon side effects. ISO-induced sacroiliitis usually completely resolves within a few months by the cessation of the drug. Case presentation In this paper, we present a 26-year-old female patient with chronic sacroiliitis that was probably induced by ISO and not resolved by the discontinuation of the drug. Conclusion In this patient, sacroiliitis was overlooked for three years. Therefore, ISO usage should be considered in the differential diagnosis of sacroiliitis and low back pain.

Keywords

• Isotretinoin
• Sacroiliitis
• HLA-B27
• Acne vulgaris