Topical isotretinoin in Darier's disease

Topical 0.05% isotretinoin (Isotrex gel) was used to treat a test patch of skin in 11 patients with Darier's disease. Hyperkeratosis and papules improved in six patients after treatment for 3 months. Erythema, burning and irritation were common adverse effects, and these were severe in three patients, one of whom stopped treatment. Patients with mild Darier's disease may find topical isotretinoin helpful, but it is likely that most patients with widespread disease will require treatment with systemic retinoids.