We report a retrospective review of 18 patients with pityriasis rubra pilaris treated with isotretinoin or etretinate, or both. Of patients treated with only isotretinoin, 60% have achieved sustained resolution. Of four patients treated with etretinate, three have cleared completely and the other patient has shown substantial improvement. Our data suggest that etretinate may be superior to isotretinoin in the treatment of adult-onset pityriasis rubra pilaris.