Premium
Efficacy of topical calcineurin inhibitors in vitiligo
Author(s) -
Wong Russell,
Lin Andrew N.
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
international journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.677
H-Index - 93
eISSN - 1365-4632
pISSN - 0011-9059
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-4632.2012.05697.x
Subject(s) - pimecrolimus , tacrolimus , medicine , vitiligo , dermatology , calcineurin , atopic dermatitis , placebo , topical agents , surgery , pathology , transplantation , alternative medicine
Topical tacrolimus and pimecrolimus are indicated for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, but they have been studied in many off‐label uses. We reviewed the English language literature to define their roles in treatment of vitiligo. Double‐blind studies show that tacrolimus 0.1% ointment combined with excimer laser is superior to placebo, especially for UV resistant areas, such as bony prominences of the extremities. When used alone, tacrolimus 0.1% ointment is almost as effective as clobetasol propionate 0.05% ointment. Other studies suggest it can also be effective for facial lesions. Double blind studies show that pimecrolimus 1% cream combined with narrow band UVB is superior to placebo, especially for facial lesions. Additional studies would further clarify the role of topical calcineurin inhibitors in vitiligo.