What teratogenic effect is associated with isotretinoin use during pregnancy?

Isotretinoin, a powerful retinoid used primarily for severe acne, is highly teratogenic when used during pregnancy. The specific teratogenic effects associated with isotretinoin include a range of malformations, particularly affecting the central nervous system and craniofacial structures. Among these, the development of hydrocephaly and microtia is significantly linked to isotretinoin exposure.

Hydrocephaly refers to an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, which can lead to increased intracranial pressure and potential neurological impairments. Microtia is a condition where the outer ear is underdeveloped, often associated with ear canal and inner ear anomalies. These defects occur due to disruptions in normal embryonic development caused by isotretinoin's pharmacological action, particularly during the critical periods of organogenesis early in pregnancy.

While cleft palate, heart defects, and neural tube defects are serious congenital anomalies, the specific combination of hydrocephaly and microtia stands out as a hallmark of isotretinoin's teratogenic profile, emphasizing the drug's profound impact on craniofacial and neurological development. This recognition highlights the importance of avoiding isotretinoin during pregnancy due to its well-d