Efalizumab for severe refractory atopic eczema: retrospective study on 11 cases

Background Efalizumab is a recombinant humanized murine monoclonal antibody against CD11a, approved for the treatment of plaque psoriasis. However, recent reports suggest that it also may be effective in the treatment of severe atopic dermatitis (AD). Objective To evaluate the clinical effect of efalizumab in AD. Methods A systematic retrospective study of the medical files of patients treated with efalizumab for AD in Danish dermatology departments. Positive outcome was defined as improvement of the disease registered in the patient's file over a period exceeding 6 months. Results Two of eleven patients had a positive outcome. Nine patients stopped treatment due to progression of AD or lack of effect. Limitations Retrospective study. Conclusions Only a minority of patients with severe AD responded to efalizumab treatment in a standard dose.