Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis and isotretinoin in cystic acne

BMJ Case Rep. 2015 Jun 23:2015:bcr2015209775. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2015-209775.

Abstract

We present the case of a 35-year-old man with thoracic back pain and stiffness, whose only medical history was cystic acne treated with repeated courses of retinoids. His thoracic spine was severely limited in range of movement and was found, on X-ray, to have unilateral hyperostosis typical of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH)--an often asymptomatic condition rarely found in those under 50. Back stiffness in young patients with prolonged retinoid exposure should be investigated.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acne Vulgaris / drug therapy*
  • Adult
  • Analgesics / therapeutic use
  • Back Pain / drug therapy
  • Back Pain / etiology
  • Dermatologic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Dermatologic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Humans
  • Hyperostosis, Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal / chemically induced*
  • Hyperostosis, Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal / complications
  • Hyperostosis, Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal / diagnostic imaging
  • Hyperostosis, Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal / drug therapy
  • Isotretinoin / administration & dosage
  • Isotretinoin / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / diagnostic imaging

Substances

  • Analgesics
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Isotretinoin