What are the clinical indications for alitretinoin?

Alitretinoin (9-cis-retinoic acid) is a retinoid that binds to all six retinoid receptors. It is indicated for the topical treatment of Kaposi’s sarcoma. It is formulated in a 0.1% gel that is applied to individual lesions. Irritant dermatitis is seen in approximately 75% of patients and severe irritant dermatitis is seen in about 10% of patients. In two different studies, 35% and 36% of patients, respectively, demonstrated significant responses. A recent double-blind, placebocontrolled, multicenter trial has also demonstrated efficacy of oral alitretinoin in the treatment of chronic hand dermatitis that is refractory to standard treatments.

Ruzicka T, Larsen FG, Galeeicz D, et al: Oral alitretinoin (9-cis-retinoic acid) therapy for chronic hand dermatitis in patients refractory to standard therapy: results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial, Arch Dermatol 140:1453–1459, 2004.