Potential future dermatological indications for tacrolimus ointment

Tacrolimus ointment is a steroid-free topical immunomodulator developed for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, a common, chronic inflammatory skin disease. By inhibiting T-cell activation and cytokine production, topically applied tacrolimus modulates inflammatory responses in the skin. Numerous clinical trials have shown that it is effective and well tolerated for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, its licensed indication. In addition, numerous publications suggest that tacrolimus ointment may provide effective treatment for a variety of other inflammatory skin disorders, many of which are very difficult to manage with standard therapy. This paper reviews currently available evidence regarding the use of tacrolimus ointment in a range of dermatological disorders, including psoriasis, lichen planus, pyoderma gangrenosum, lichen sclerosus, contact dermatitis, leg ulcers in rheumatoid arthritis, steroid-induced rosacea and alopecia areata. It also provides recommendations for future clinical studies with tacrolimus ointment.