Abstract:

Objective To evaluate efficacy and safety of topical pimecrolimus for atopic dermatitis in children and infants. Methods Randomized controlled trials (RCT) were identified from the Cochrane Library(issue 2, 2010) , Medline(1966～2010) , Embase(1974～2010), CBM(1978～2010.6) , CNKI(1978～2010.6). RCT reporting efficacy outcomes and tolerability, in comparison to topical corticosteroids (TCs) or vehicle or tacrolimus, were included. Two group reviewers independently assessed trials quality and extracted date. The RevMan 5.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Results Sixteen studies involving 5076 pediatric patients were included, with all trials of high methodological quality. Meta-analysis indicated that 1% pimecrolimus was more effective than vehicle (all P < 0.01).1% pimecrolimus was as effective as 0.03% tacrolimus (all P > 0.05).1% pimecrolimus was less effective than 0.1% tacrolimus (P=0.01). No serious adverse effects were identified except irritating and burning sensation of skin. Conclusions Topical pimecrolimus for atopic dermatitis in children and infants is efficacy and safety, with tended to improve IGA scores, pruritus scores as well as PIQoL-AD scores. Comparing with TCs, it is not yet known, whether topical pimecrolimus is more effective to treat atopic dermatitis. In addition, the more RCTs should be undertaken.

Key words: Meta-analysis