Cyclosporine in severe childhood atopic dermatitis: a multicenter study

J Am Acad Dermatol. 1996 Jun;34(6):1016-21. doi: 10.1016/s0190-9622(96)90281-9.

Abstract

Background: Severe atopic dermatitis (AD) remains difficult to treat. Cyclosporine is effective in adults but has not previously been investigated in children with AD.

Objective: The aims were to investigate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of cyclosporine in severe refractory childhood AD.

Methods: Subjects 2 to 16 years of age were treated for 6 weeks with cyclosporine, 5 mg/kg per day, in an open study. Disease activity was monitored every 2 weeks by means of sign scores, visual analogue scales for symptoms, and quality-of-life questionnaires. Adverse events were monitored. Efficacy and tolerability were assessed with five-point scales.

Results: Twenty-seven children were treated. Significant improvements were seen in all measures of disease activity. Twenty-two showed marked improvement or total clearing. Quality of life improved for both the children and their families. Tolerability was considered good or very good in 25 subjects.

Conclusion: Cyclosporine may offer an effective, safe, and well-tolerated short-term treatment option for children with severe AD.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Multicenter Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Administration, Topical
  • Adolescent
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Capsules
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cyclosporine / administration & dosage
  • Cyclosporine / adverse effects
  • Cyclosporine / therapeutic use*
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / drug therapy*
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / pathology
  • Drug Tolerance
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / administration & dosage
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Quality of Life
  • Remission Induction
  • Safety
  • Solutions

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Capsules
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Solutions
  • Cyclosporine