Systemic Retinoid Treatment in Childhood Psoriasis: Experience of 19 Mayis University?

Abstract

Background and Design: Severe psoriasis in childhood has a significant morbidity and can warrant the use of systemic agents, although there are very little information in this group. We aimed to show the results of acitretin treatment in children with severe psoriasis, in this study. Material and Method: We have retrospectively reviewed the notes of all 18 children treated with acitretin at Ondokuz Mayis University Hospital. Patients' responses to treatment, total treatment durations and acitretine dosage were recorded. Additionally, the laboratory results during the whole follow-up period and bone surveys for 3 patients who received long term treatment were evaluated. Results: Of the 18 patients reviewed, 2 (%11.1) responded with clearance of psoriasis, 10 (%55.5) responded well with small residual plaques. Two patients needed two courses of acitretine (11 and 12 months), 1 patient needed three courses for 15 months and 1 needed 5 courses for 24 months. Two patients stopped treatment due to mucocutaneous side effects at 4th and 5th months. There were no other adverse events. Conclusion: We propose that when carefully monitored, acitretine is a safe and efficacious treatment option for severe psoriasis in children.