A comparative study of topical tacrolimus and topical triamcinolone acetonide in nodular scabies.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide and 0.1% tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of such nodular lesions of scabies. METHODS In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, fifty Indian men with postscabeitic persistent nodular lesions over the external genitalia, were enrolled. They were randomized into two groups to receive either triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% ointment twice daily, or tacrolimus ointment 0.03% twice daily over the nodular lesions for 2 weeks. All patients were followed up on three visits: 1, 2, and 6 weeks, for assessment. Efficacy was evaluated by 5-point range investigator-assessed VAS, and a 4-point severity of pruritus scale (SPS) score. RESULTS The mean VAS score was higher in triamcinolone group compared to tacrolimus group at both follow ups, although statistically significant only at 2nd week visit. The fall in mean SPS at both follow ups was higher in the steroid group, but the difference was not statistically significant. DISCUSSION Although both treatment options provided satisfactory short term improvement, triamcinolone ointment proved to be more efficacious. CONCLUSIONS Mid-potency TCS are more effective in treatment of nodular lesions of NS/PSP. Topical CNIs may be considered if prolonged topical therapy is warranted. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.