Background: Retinoids are important in regulating cell proliferation and differentiation and play an important role in the body, including the skin.
Objectives: Our objective is to review the current medical literature regarding use, effects and side-effects of topical and systemic retinoids used for therapy.
Methods: Pubmed/Medline electronic database was searched for relevant German and English literature.
Results: The group of retinoids used for therapeutic purposes includes both naturally occurring and chemically synthesized vitamin A derivates. Because of their influence on keratinization and epithelial differentiation, as well on the proliferation of benign and malignant keratinocytes, retinoids have found a wide application in the field of dermatopharmacology.
Conclusion: Retinoids are among the most efficacious drugs used in the treatment of dermatological disorders and have a wide range of biological effects. Thorough knowledge about side-effects and comprehensive information for the patient are essential for safe treatment with retinoids.