Topical praziquantel as a new treatment for perioral dermatitis: results of a randomized vehicle-controlled pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Perioral dermatitis (POD) is a common skin disease, and extending the range of treatments available for this condition is important.

AIM: To evaluate the safety, efficacy and tolerability of praziquantel 3% ointment as monotherapy.

METHODS: This was a single-centre, randomized, single-blind, vehicle-controlled pilot study in adult patients (n = 46) with 4 weeks of treatment and 4 weeks of follow-up. Efficacy was assessed clinically using the Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) and the Perioral Dermatitis Severity Index (PODSI). Quality of life (QOL) was determined by the Dermatology Quality of Life Index (DLQI).

RESULTS: PODSI was significantly lower in the praziquantel group than in the placebo (vehicle) group, both during treatment and period. Mean IGA score showed a statistically significant therapeutic advantage of praziquantel over placebo at week 4 (P < 0.001). The praziquantel group experienced a greater improvement in mean DLQI. No serious treatment-related adverse events occurred in either group.

CONCLUSIONS: Praziquantel ointment 3% effectively improves POD symptoms and QOL.