ABSTRACT
Topical and systemic retinoids are valuable therapeutic agents, but they require precautions for their use in vulnerable populations that include infants, children, women of child bearing age, and the elderly. These agents are generally indicated for keratinization disorders and psoriasis during infancy and childhood, where acne becomes an additional problem. They have to be used with extreme caution in women with child-bearing potential. In the older patient, they are often indicated for antiaging and prevention of skin carcinogenesis.
The major concern for use in infants and children is skeletal toxicity, while teratogenicity is the major concern for women of child-bearing potential. Tolerating the irritation produced when retinoids are applied topically affects its usage in all age groups. Retinoids, both topically and systemically, are highly useful agents, when used appropriately and with appropriate caution.
