Analyzing the Efficacy of Isotretinoin in Treating Dissecting Cellulitis: A Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is a primary scarring alopecia. Isotretinoin is commonly referenced in the literature as a treatment for dissecting cellulitis. The objective of this article was to conduct a review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of isotretinoin for treating dissecting cellulitis of the scalp. METHODS: The following databases were searched for articles prior to 23 June, 2019: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Multi-patient studies (more than three) that reported on the administration of isotretinoin for dissecting cellulitis were included. A pooled meta-analysis for improvement of disease burden after isotretinoin administration in patients with dissecting cellulitis of the scalp was performed. A fixed-effects model was used. RESULTS: Five articles were ultimately used for the quantitative meta-analysis. The overall efficacy rate of isotretinoin in treating dissecting cellulitis of the scalp was estimated to be 0.9 with a 95% confidence interval (0.81–0.97). The sensitivity analysis suggested that the overall efficacy is still very high, with a range of 0.83–0.94. Recurrence was seen in 24% (6/25) of patients. Common associated diseases amongst patients with dissecting cellulitis of the scalp were acne conglobata 20% (30/151) and hidradenitis suppurativa 19% (11/72). CONCLUSIONS: Isotretinoin is an effective treatment for improving symptoms of dissecting cellulitis of the scalp. Disease recurrence is a common finding for those who undergo successful treatment.