Topical treatments for atopic dermatitis (eczema): systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized trials
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin condition with multiple topical treatment options, but uncertain comparative effects.
OBJECTIVES
We systematically synthesized the benefits and harms of AD prescription topical treatments.
METHODS
For the 2023 AAAAI/ACAAI JTFPP AD guidelines, we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, LILACS, ICTRP, and GREAT to September 5, 2022 for randomized trials addressing AD topical treatments. Paired reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Random-effects network meta-analyses addressed AD severity, itch, sleep, AD-quality of life, flares, and harms. The GRADE approach informed certainty of evidence ratings. We classified topical corticosteroids (TCS) using seven classes-group 1 being most potent. OSF: https://osf.io/q5m6s.
RESULTS
219 included trials (43,123 patients) evaluated 68 interventions. With high-certainty, pimecrolimus improved six of seven outcomes-among the best for two; high-dose tacrolimus (0.1%) improved five-among the best for two; low-dose tacrolimus (0.03%) improved five-among the best for one. With moderate-to-high certainty, group 5 TCS improved six-among the best for three; group 4 TCS and delgocitinib improved four-among the best for two; ruxolitinib improved four-among the best for one; group 1 TCS improved three-among the best for two. These interventions did not increase harms. Crisaborole and difamilast were intermediately effective, but uncertain harm. Topical…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 43,123 participants or records.
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