Therapeutic effects of calcipotriol solution in the treatment of scalp psoriasis

Background: Calcipotriol ointment has been reported to be a safe and effective treatment for patients with psoriasis vulgaris. Scalp involvement of psoriasis is extremely common and in some patients the scalp may be the only affected site. Objective: Our purpose was to assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of calcipotriol solution(50 μg/ml) in the treatment of scalp psoriasis. Methods: Twenty five patients with mild to moderate scalp psoriasis were treated with calcipotriol solution(50 μg/ml) twice daily for 8 weeks. Efficacy as measured by erythema, thickness and scale of the lesions and safety were assessed every 2 weeks. Results: Reduction of scores of erythema, thickness and scale of the lesions was statistically significant through the treatment. The extent of psoriasis and itching also decreased. An analysis of the overall assessment by investigator and patients at the end of the treatment showed cleared or marked improvement in 80% and 68% individually. Some patients developed a mild and transient burning sensation(2%) or lesional irritation(2%). Laboratory tests including serum calcium levels did not show any significant changes. Conclusion: Calcipotriol solution can be used as an effective and safe treatment method for scalp psoriasis.