An open-label study of the safety and efficacy of limited application of fluticasone propionate ointment, 0.005%, in patients with atopic dermatitis of the face and intertriginous areas

Background The treatment options for facial and intertriginous skin are limited because these sites are more susceptible to corticosteroid-induced atrophy The long-term management of these corticosteroid-sensitive sites requires the use of dosing regimens that are effective, but also safe. Methods The affected areas in 21 patients with atopic dermatitis were treated twice daily for 2 weeks, and then once daily for two consecutive days each week for eight more weeks. Results After 2 weeks, treatment success occurred in 95% of facial and intertriginous lesions and also in 95% of nonfacial, nonintertriginous lesions. During long-term therapy, treatment success was maintained in > 76% of facial and intertriginous lesions, and > 76% of other lesions. Recurrence rates were low, and skin atrophy and telangiectasia did not occur. Conclusions Patients with atopic dermatitis of facial and intertriginous areas were successfully treated with a limited application of fluticasone propionate ointment, 0.005%. The treatment resulted in rapid healing and provided efficacy with a low rate of recurrence and no evidence of skin atrophy or telangiectasia over 8 weeks.