Dermatologist attitudes toward ciclosporin use in atopic dermatitis

Ciclosporin (CsA) is a systemic immunosuppressive agent indicated for use in the treatment of patients with recalcitrant atopic dermatitis (AD). Studies demonstrate reasonable evidence of benefit compared with placebo. However as biologic agents are under development for use in AD, an assessment of the use, attitude to and safety of CsA is essential in understanding unmet needs in severe AD. We present the results of a survey asking questions relating to initial dose, duration of prescription, precautions and monitoring undertaken during treatment, adverse events seen, and hierarchy of use for systemic agents. This survey was distributed at the annual meeting of the Australasian College of Dermatologists. Twenty-two percent of respondents never prescribe CsA, and 50% prescribe it only 1-2 times per month. When prescribed, the most frequently recommended duration was 6-12 months (24%). Of prescribers, 56% start with a low dose of <3.5 mg/kg daily, and when stratified according to years of experience, a higher proportion of more junior dermatologists commenced with lower doses (p=.028). Regarding side effects, 95% of respondents expressed concern about nephrotoxicity, 37% about hypertension, and 17% infection. The results suggest that although most dermatologists consider CsA to be effective, there are concerns regarding the safety profile.