Published online by Cambridge University Press: 07 January 2022
Eczematous external otitis is a common chronic condition that can have a significant impact on the life of sufferers, causing constant discomfort and pruritus, and leading to sleep deprivation. Treatment is based on the use of topical steroids, moisturisers and occasionally antibiotics. Results, however, can be disappointing, especially over the long term.
This study compared the long-term response to pimecrolimus, administered to a group of 11 patients, against clobetasone butyrate, administered to an equivalent number of patients. Response to the treatment was assessed and statistically analysed at 3 and 12 months.
Whereas the degree of improvement following the use of pimecrolimus and clobetasone butyrate was similar for the two groups at month 3, a highly statistically significant difference was documented at month 12, with a much greater and sustained improvement in the pimecrolimus group.
Dr E Verga takes responsibility for the integrity of the content of the paper