[Serum triglycerides and cholesterin in patients with skin diseases during oral treatment with aromatic retinoid (author's transl)].

The serum lipid levels were repeatedly controlled in 25 patients with various skin diseases treated orally with retinoid Ro 10-9359 in different doses. In 19 cases serum lipid values before onset of treatment were taken. 6 additional patients were controlled after long-term intake of the drug over 6-8 months. Pathological elevations of triglycerides were seen in 5 patients, in 4 of them 2-12 weeks after onset of oral treatment. All patients with elevated values had additional risk factors: Manifest or asymptomatic diabetes, alcoholic abuse with fatty liver, adipositas, and/or preexisting disorders of lipid metabolism. The observed changes seemed dose-dependent. The values were lowered or returned to normal after dose reduction or after discontinuation of treatment (one case). The cholesterin levels also showed some elevated values during the time of observation, however, there was no clear relation to the administration of the drug and the daily dose. The changes were also seen preferably in patients with risk factors. Controls of serum lipid levels seem, therefore, indicated before and under administration of oral retinoid. In patients with the additional risk factors mentioned above strict indication for oral retinoid therapy is needed and lower doses should be rather administered.