Retinoic acid syndrome

Retinoic acid is a special kind of acid that can help our bodies make new cells and keep our skin, hair, and nails healthy. Sometimes, doctors use a special medicine made from retinoic acid to help sick people get better. This medicine is called all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA for short).

However, ATRA can sometimes cause something called retinoic acid syndrome. This is when our bodies get too much of the retinoic acid medicine, and it can make us feel really sick.

Some signs of retinoic acid syndrome include feeling really hot, having trouble breathing, having a headache, and feeling very tired. Sometimes, people with this syndrome can even have trouble thinking or seeing clearly.

Doctors know how to help people who have retinoic acid syndrome. They might give them other medicines to help them feel better or give them a lower dose of ATRA. It's important to always talk to a doctor if you're taking any kind of medicine and feel sick or have any strange symptoms.