Efficacy of topical calcineurin inhibitors in psoriasis

Abstract

Background: Topical calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus and pimecrolimus) are indicated for the treatment of atopic dermatitis but have also been studied in the treatment of psoriasis.

Objective: To define the efficacy of topical calcineurin inhibitors in the treatment of psoriasis.

Methods: We searched for English-language articles published since 1990 in PubMed, Ovid/Cochrane, and Embase using "tacrolimus," "pimecrolimus," or "topical calcineurin inhibitors" and "psoriasis."

Results: Nine double-blind and 13 open studies demonstrated the efficacy of topical tacrolimus in psoriasis, especially for facial, genital, and intertrigious psoriasis, and four double-blind and one open study demonstrated the efficacy of topical pimecrolimus.

Conclusions: The evidence (double-blind and open studies) is strong that topical tacrolimus and, to a lesser extent, pimecrolimus have efficacy in the treatment of psoriasis. Since these agents do not cause cutaneous atrophy, they likely have a special role in facial, genital, and intertriginous psoriasis. Further studies would help define their roles in psoriasis.