Efficacy of topical tacrolimus for treating the malar rash of systemic lupus erythematosus.

Abstract

The rash of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is usually treated with topical corticosteroids, but prolonged use causes adverse cutaneous side-effects. We assessed the efficacy of topical tacrolimus for treating the skin lesions of SLE. Three patients with SLE affecting their facial skin applied 0.1% tacrolimus ointment on one side of their face twice daily for 3 weeks, in conjunction with a sunscreen cream. After 3 weeks, erythema on the treated side was ameliorated in all three patients compared with the untreated side. Although the study is preliminary, the results demonstrate that topical tacrolimus may be useful for treating the malar rash of SLE.

• Authors: T Kanekura, N Yoshii, K Terasaki, H Miyoshi, T Kanzaki
• Journal: The British journal of dermatology (Br J Dermatol) Vol. 148 Issue 2 Pg. 353-6 (Feb 2003) ISSN: 0007-0963 [Print] England
• PMID: 12588393 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anti-Bacterial Agents
• Immunosuppressive Agents
• Ointments
• Tacrolimus

Topics

• Adult
• Anti-Bacterial Agents (administration & dosage)
• Exanthema (drug therapy, etiology)
• Facial Dermatoses (drug therapy, etiology)
• Female
• Humans
• Immunosuppressive Agents (administration & dosage)
• Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic (complications, drug therapy)
• Male
• Ointments
• Tacrolimus (administration & dosage)
• Treatment Outcome