Discoid lupus erythematosus lesions are commonly treated with corticosteroids, but corticosteroids may induce side effects such as thinning of the skin or scarring. Therefore, an alternative medication with the same efficacy, but without the side-effects is sought after. Pimecrolimus is a newer drug specially designed to treat inflammatory diseases of skin. Its efficacy in treating discoid lupus erythematosus has not been studied extensively yet. However studies performed till now show promising results. Long-term topical use of this medication has not shown any serious side-effects in other skin diseases. In this study we aimed at comparing pimecrolimus efficacy with that of a common therapeutic choice, betamethasone valerate 0.1% cream, to see if pimecrolimus can be used as an alternative medication in treating discoid lupus erythematosus.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
10
a very thin coat of pimecrolimus 1% cream, twice daily topically to the facial lesions of discoid lupus erythematosus
A very thin coat of betamethasone valerate 0.1% cream, twice daily to facial lesions of discoid lupus erythematosus for 8 weeks.
Shohada'e Tajrish Hospital
Tehran, Tehran Province, Iran
Efficacy end points included a combined score based on evaluation of erythema, infiltration and squamation
Time frame: 1st day, after 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks of treatment
Secondary outcome: Safety assessments included monitoring of adverse events
Time frame: 1st day, after 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks of treatment
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