Isotretinoin induced rhabdomyolysis? A case report

Isotretinoin, an effective therapy for nodulocystic acne and dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, has many known side effects. However, its association with elevated creatine kinase levels and its potential to cause rhabdomyolysis is not well established. We describe a patient with a significant elevation in creatine kinase after beginning therapy with isotretinoin for dissecting cellulitis of the scalp. The implications of isotretinoin causing rhabdomyolysis are discussed.