Pimecrolimus in the clinical practice of a dermatologist

Abstract

Chronic inflammatory skin diseases are accompanied by the development of objective and subjective symptoms, which are manifested by erythema, edema, infiltration, accompanied by itching of varying severity. The goal of treatment of chronic skin diseases is resolution of objective symptoms and reduction of subjective complaints. Currently, the stages of treatment of varying degrees of severity of chronic dermatoses are defined. Topical glucocorticosteroids are traditionally used in treatment, which have a pronounced anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, antiproliferative effect, but the presence of side effects limits their use. In clinical practice, topical calcineurin inhibitors are successfully used, which, along with topical glucocorticosteroids, have an anti-inflammatory effect, reduce the intensity of itching. This article discusses the possible use of pimecrolimus cream 1% in atopic dermatitis and chronic dermatoses (off-label): psoriasis, squamous lichen, rosacea, lupus erythematosus, focal scleroderma, vitiligo, mastocytosis. Pimecrolimus 1% is administered to patients of different age groups in areas with thin sensitive skin, increased resorption capacity, on mucous membranes. Long-term use of pimecrolimus 1% both as a monotherapeutic agent and in combination with other external medications is safe, allows to stop objective and subjective clinical symptoms of diseases, gives an opportunity to use it as a proactive therapy. Long-term clinical studies confirm the safety of the use and long-term use of pimecrolimus cream 1% in different age groups and at different lesion areas. The use of pimecrolimus in skin and mucosal lesions is very promising. Long study of the drug in various dermatoses in different age groups proves its effectiveness and safety.

Keywords

• pimecrolimus
• calcineurin inhibitors
• chronic dermatoses
• atopic dermatitis
• psoriasis
• lichen planus