Definition

A drug closely related to vitamin A that is used to treat severe acne and may also be used to treat other skin conditions and some types of cancer, including neuroblastoma. It is also being studied in the prevention and treatment of other types of cancer. 13-cis retinoic acid binds to and activates certain protein receptors in cells, including cancer cells. This may slow the growth of cancer cells and change how these cells look and act. 13-cis retinoic acid is a type of retinoid. Also called isotretinoin.