Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of topical imiquimod 5% for plaque-type morphea: a multicenter, prospective, vehicle-controlled trial.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

There is currently a lack of evidence-based therapies that are safe and effective for plaque-type morphea. We aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential and safety profile of imiquimod 5% cream in plaque-type morphea.

METHODS:

We enrolled 25 adult patients from two Canadian centers with histologically confirmed plaque-type morphea. Imiquimod 5% was applied to a representative plaque, and vehicle was applied to a control plaque for 9 months. Treatment efficacy was assessed with the Dyspigmentation, Induration, Erythema, and Telangiectasias (DIET) score, histology, and ultrasound evaluation.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS:

Twenty-two patients completed the entire length of the study. Imiquimod 5% was superior to vehicle in reducing DIET scores at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months (p < .05). Induration demonstrated the greatest response. Histologic evaluation showed significant improvement or resolution of disease. However, no ultrasonographic differences were found in dermal and hypodermal thicknesses between the treatment and vehicle groups (p > .05). Adverse effects were minimal and well tolerated.

• Authors: Marlene Dytoc, Heidi Wat, Melody Cheung-Lee, Douglas Sawyer, Thomas Ackerman, Loretta Fiorillo
• Journal: Journal of cutaneous medicine and surgery (J Cutan Med Surg) 2015 Mar-Apr Vol. 19 Issue 2 Pg. 132-9 ISSN: 1203-4754 [Print] United States
• PMID: 25775634 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Multicenter Study, Randomized Controlled Trial)
• Copyright: © 2014 Canadian Dermatology Association.

Chemical References

• Adjuvants, Immunologic
• Aminoquinolines
• Imiquimod

Topics

• Adjuvants, Immunologic (administration & dosage)
• Administration, Cutaneous
• Administration, Topical
• Adult
• Aminoquinolines (administration & dosage)
• Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
• Double-Blind Method
• Drug Administration Schedule
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Imiquimod
• Male
• Prospective Studies
• Scleroderma, Localized (diagnostic imaging, drug therapy, pathology)
• Time Factors
• Treatment Outcome
• Ultrasonography