Tacrolimus ointment is effective for facial and intertriginous psoriasis.
2004 Nov
Journal Article
Authors:
Lebwohl, M.;
Freeman, A.Krupnick;
Chapman, S.;
Feldman, S.R.;
Hartle, J.E.;
Henning, A.
Secondary:
J Am Acad Dermatol
Volume:
51
Pagination:
723-30
Issue:
5
PMID:
15523350
DOI:
10.1016/j.jaad.2004.07.011
Keywords:
Adolescent; Adult; Dermatologic Agents; Double-Blind Method; Facial Dermatoses; Female; Humans; Immunosuppressive Agents; Male; Middle Aged; Ointments; Psoriasis; Tacrolimus
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Intertriginous and facial involvement are manifestations of psoriasis that require a different approach than is used for typical plaque psoriasis on other skin areas. Topical corticosteroids are the primary treatment for psoriasis; however, the side effects of corticosteroids are magnified on intertriginous and facial skin. Topical tacrolimus offers the potential for anti-inflammatory effect without the atrophy or other local side effects associated with the use of topical corticosteroids.OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy and tolerability of 0.1% tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of facial or intertriginous psoriasis.METHODS: One hundred sixty-seven patients 16 years or older were evaluated in an 8-week, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, multi-center study. Upon entry into the study, patients were randomized 2:1 to apply the tacrolimus ointment 0.1% or vehicle twice daily to all psoriatic lesions of the face or intertriginous areas for 8 weeks. The physician's global assessment was used to assess improvement from baseline. The inverse psoriasis severity for patients was measured using a 6-point scale from clear to very severe.RESULTS: As early as day 8, more patients ( P = .004) had cleared or achieved excellent improvement in the 0.1% tacrolimus ointment group compared to the vehicle group (24.8% vs 5.8%). At the end of the 8-week treatment period 65.2% of the tacrolimus ointment group and 31.5% of the vehicle were clear or almost clear ( P < .0001) based on a Static Severity Score. Adverse events were similar in the 0.1% tacrolimus ointment and vehicle groups. Conclusion Tacrolimus ointment is an effective treatment for psoriasis of the face or intertriginous areas.
