CYCLOSPORINE IN THE TREATMENT OF DERMATOLOGICAL DISEASE - AN UPDATE

Treatment with cyclosporine is beneficial for many dermatologic diseas es such as psoriasis, lichen planus, Behcet disease, atopic dermatitis , pyoderma gangrenosum, and epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, The selec tive action of cyclosporine on helper T cells and its rapid therapeuti c action and weak myelotoxicity are the key advantages in the treatmen t of many dermatologic diseases, Nevertheless, drug toxicity, especial ly nephrotoxicity high rates of relapse after treatment cessation, and high cost have limited its use to those diseases refractory to other therapies, Herein we discuss the use of cyclosporine for dermatologic diseases relative to efficacy, dosage, safety profile, and monitoring. In addition, we review the formulations and metabolism of cyclosporin e; discuss its mechanism of action, clinical indications in dermatolog y, and side effects; and provide usage guidelines for this drug, Cyclo sporine can be safely administered when potential toxicities, dosing, and monitoring guidelines are known.