Topical Tacrolimus for Psoriasis

ABSTRACT

Tacrolimus ointment is an agent approved for the treatment of atopic dermatitis; however, tacrolimus has been expected also as one of the promising therapeutic strategies for other T-cell mediated inflammatory skin disorders. Recent progress have demonstrated that topical tacrolimus shows beneficial effects for psoriasis depending on sites. In particular, facial, intertriginous, and genital psoriasis respond to topical tacrolimus dramatically in a short period. Further, topical tacrolimus is tolerable also for child psoriasis. Because topical tacrolimus does not induce either skin atrophy or telangiectasia different from corticosteroids, it is recommended to be a first choice. The most proper way of topical tacrolimus therapy at present is to use this ointment intermittently after the remission was once obtained, paying attention to its adverse effects.