A practical algorithm for topical treatment of atopic dermatitis in the Middle East emphasizing the importance of sensitive skin areas

Figures & data

Figure 1. Algorithm for the treatment of atopic dermatitis in patients (children, adolescents and adults) from the Middle East. ^aChildren, adolescents and adults. ^bIn these areas a cream is better accepted by patients than an ointment. ^cTCI = Pimecrolimus 1% cream; tacrolimus 0.1% ointment for adults; or tacrolimus 0.03% ointment for children. Pimecrolimus is indicated for mild-to-moderate AD while tacrolimus is indicated for moderate-to-severe cases. ^dIf inflammation is not controllable with TCIs, brief treatment with TCS may be recommended. AD: atopic dermatitis; TCI: topical calcineurin inhibitor; TCS: topical corticosteroid.

Table 1. Comparative acceptability of pimecrolimus 1% cream and tacrolimus 0.03% ointment in pediatric patients with moderate atopic dermatitis (46).

Product characteristic	Patients rating treatment as very good or excellent (%)
	Pimecrolimus 1% cream (n = 71)	Tacrolimus 0.03% ointment (n = 70)	p-value
Suitability for use on sensitive skin	63.3	38.6	.009
Non-sticky feel	74.6	37.1	<.001
Ease of application	76.0	58.6	.020
Ease of rub-in	74.6	55.7	.015
Spreadability	71.8	57.1	.06

Kempers S, Boguniewicz M, Carter E, et al. A randomized investigator-blinded study comparing pimecrolimus cream 1% with tacrolimus ointment 0.03% in the treatment of pediatric patients with moderate atopic dermatitis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51:515–525.

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