Safety and Efficacy of Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors in the Treatment of Facial and Genital Psoriasis: A Systematic Review

Authors

  • Diva Amiri Copenhagen Research Group for Inflammatory Skin (CORGIS), Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1087-1753
  • Christopher Willy Schwarz Copenhagen Research Group for Inflammatory Skin (CORGIS), Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2255-398X
  • Lise Gether Copenhagen Research Group for Inflammatory Skin (CORGIS), Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2332-2286
  • Lone Skov Copenhagen Research Group for Inflammatory Skin (CORGIS), Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4784-9680

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2340/actadv.v103.6525

Keywords:

Calcineurin Inhibitors, Pimecrolimus, Psoriasis, Systematic Review, Tacrolimus, Treatment Outcome

Abstract

Facial and genital psoriasis impairs quality of life and is challenging to treat because of increased percutaneous penetration and, consequently, increased risk of adverse effects. Topical calcineurin inhibitors are recognized as a valid off-label treatment for these sensitive skin areas, but data on safety and efficacy are limited. This systematic review of the literature included 24 of 3,322 studies (5 randomized controlled trials, 9 open-label studies, 2 case series and 8 case reports). All studies demonstrated positive efficacy; 11 studies found statistically significant reductions in psoriasis severity. Local stinging, burning and itching were the most common short-term adverse effects and were reported in 18 studies. Topical calcineurin inhibitors appear to have an important role in the treatment of facial and genital psoriasis. The drugs are effective and generally well-tolerated with few adverse effects. 

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Additional Files

Published

2023-03-14

How to Cite

Amiri, D., Schwarz, C. W., Gether, L., & Skov, L. (2023). Safety and Efficacy of Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors in the Treatment of Facial and Genital Psoriasis: A Systematic Review. Acta Dermato-Venereologica, 103, adv00890. https://doi.org/10.2340/actadv.v103.6525