Long-term outcome of severe chronic plaque psoriasis following treatment with high-dose topical calcipotriol.

Abstract

We have previously reported the effectiveness of high-dose calcipotriol in extensive psoriasis. We now report the long-term outcome in patients following this treatment. Twenty-eight patients with severe psoriasis were treated as in-patients with high-dose topical calcipotriol for 2 weeks. There was a mean reduction in the psoriasis area and severity index of 65%. Sixty-nine per cent were controlled for 3 months and 42% for 6 months. The relapse rate was comparable with that following Ingram's regimen, the in-patient stay was shorter and the treatment more acceptable. Careful monitoring of calcium homeostasis is mandatory.