Successful treatment with topical tacrolimus in four cases of discoid lupus erythematosus

J Dermatol. 2006 Dec;33(12):887-91. doi: 10.1111/j.1346-8138.2006.00203.x.

Abstract

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), a cutaneous form of lupus erythematosus, is characterized as atrophic and scaly erythema and the lesions are often refractory to a wide range of topical or systemic therapies. Herein, we present four cases of DLE that were successfully treated with topical tacrolimus. Tacrolimus ointment (0.1%) was applied to DLE lesions twice daily and the erythematous plaques readily diminished after 4-8 weeks. Adverse effects, such as burning sensation or irritations, were not observed. These results indicate that topical tacrolimus might be an effective and alternative treatment to control DLE.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Facial Dermatoses / drug therapy
  • Facial Dermatoses / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / administration & dosage
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Discoid / drug therapy*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Discoid / prevention & control
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Ointments
  • Tacrolimus / administration & dosage
  • Tacrolimus / therapeutic use*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Ointments
  • Tacrolimus