Effects of Isotretinoin on Nasal Mucociliary Clearance and Olfactory Function
Isotretinoin is a common medicine used to treat moderate to severe acne. It often causes dryness of the skin and the inside of the nose. Because a normal sense of smell depends on a healthy nasal lining, this dryness may affect how well a person can smell. This study will examine whether isotretinoin treatment changes the sense of smell in adults with acne. Before starting isotretinoin, participants will complete a standardized smell test and two short questionnaires about nasal symptoms and quality of life (NOSE and SNOT-22). After at least 4 weeks of treatment, the same smell test and questionnaires will be repeated. By comparing results before and after treatment, the study will test the hypothesis that isotretinoin has a negative effect on olfactory function and may reduce patients' ability to smell.
• Diagnosed with acne and scheduled to start oral isotretinoin as part of routine dermatology care
• Willing to participate and able to give informed consent
• Not currently smoking
• No history of allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, or active upper respiratory infection
• No medical condition known to affect the sense of smell