Natural peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha agonist cream demonstrates similar therapeutic response to topical steroids in atopic dermatitis

Abstract

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) requires permanent skin care. Objective: A cream containing 2% SO (sunflower oleodistillate), with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α) agonist properties, has been compared to a topical steroid (hydrocortisone butyro-propionate 1 mg/g). Methods: An open, randomized study included two groups of 40 children (aged 3 months to 4 years). Group A applied the steroid and group B applied the 2% SO cream, twice a day. SCORAD (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis) was determined at D0, D7 and D21 and quality of life (QoL) at D0 and D21. Results: SCORAD was similar at D0 (37.2 versus 36.9), D7 (18.9 versus 19.2) (–49% and –48%) and D21 (11 versus 9.4) (–70% and –75%) (p < 0.01 versus D0). The Infant Dermatitis Quality of Life and Dermatitis Family Impact Questionnaire improved similarly by 65%/67% in group A and 72%/75% in group B at D21 (p < 0.01 versus D0). Conclusion: A 2% SO cream has demonstrated therapeutic properties, using clinical scores and QoL, comparable to those of a topical steroid.

Key words::

• atopic dermatitis
• emollient
• PPAR-alpha agonist
• quality of life

Acknowledgements

This study was supported by Laboratoires Expanscience, R&D Center, France. Dr C. de Belilovsky was supported and paid by Laboratoires Expanscience for managing the project.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.