Retrospective Analysis of Pimecrolimus Cream 1% for Treatment of Facial Vitiligo

Objective: To explore the effectiveness of pimecrolimus cream 1% used twice daily (BID) for the treatment of facial vitiligo. Methods: Patients who had used pimecrolimus cream 1% monotherapy BID for at least 3 months and who had photographs taken at baseline and after initiation of therapy were analyzed in a retrospective study. The total affected surface area (cm2) of facial vitiligo in the baseline and follow-up photographs was compared. The extent of facial depigmentation was scored using a 7-point scale (0=no disease to 6=100% involvement). Results: Eight patients met study entry criteria. Mean time from initiation of treatment to the final follow-up visit was 11 months (SD±7.5 months). Mean affected surface area at baseline and follow-up were 79.40 cm2 and 17.96 cm2, respectively, (P=.012) with a mean percent improvement 72.5% (SD±20.4%). Mean depigmentation score decreased from 2.8 at baseline to 1.4 at follow-up. No adverse events were reported. Conclusion: Pimecrolimus cream 1% may be a viable alternative to current therapies for the treatment of facial vitiligo.