Cyclosporine in severe childhood atopic dermatitis: A multicenter study

Background: Severe atopic dermatitis (AD) remains difficult to treat. Cyclosporine is effecive 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.