Transgender adolescents and acne: A cases series

Pediatr Dermatol. 2018 May;35(3):e155-e158. doi: 10.1111/pde.13448. Epub 2018 Mar 25.

Abstract

We describe the difficulties of treating acne in a series of female-to-male transgender adolescents, including concerns about potential hepatotoxicity with concomitant use of testosterone with isotretinoin or tetracyclines. Acne is a foreseeable adverse effect of testosterone treatment in transgender adolescents, so monitoring for acne is advised. The treatment of acne in transgender adolescents is important given that severe acne and transgenderism are associated with higher rates of depression and suicide.

Keywords: acne; adolescence; isotretinoin; transgender persons.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acne Vulgaris / drug therapy*
  • Acne Vulgaris / etiology
  • Adolescent
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Doxycycline / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Isotretinoin / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Testosterone / adverse effects*
  • Transgender Persons*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Testosterone
  • Isotretinoin
  • Doxycycline