Modified Dithranol Therapy for Psoriasis

Abstract

Graded concentration of compound dithranol ointment were, tried' in 107 patients with plaque psoriais. The lowest concentration used was 0.05% which was gradully'mcreased, irrespective of the response. to the . um tolerable concentration. The ointment was applied over the patches in the evening and the lesions were exposed to the sun the next day. This was followed by a soap water bath. The process was repeated tiD 16 weeks or the disappearance of lesions whichever was earlier. A majority of the patients required a concentration of 0.25% for clearing and a few required 0.5% concentration. In 54 patients, there was complete clearing of the lesions and another 22% showed 75% clearance. Only 2% cases, there was no appreciable change in the skin lesions. Resistant sites were legs, elbows, lower back etc. Mild local side effm such as folliculitis, irritation of the surrounding normal skin and local pruritus occurred in some patients. In seven patients, c irritation required discontinuation of the therapy. Temporary staining of the fingertips and hair occurred as also staining of the No systemic side effects were observed.