How to treat hypopigmentation caused by the topical Elidel (pimecrolimus)?

Doctor's Answers 2

Elidel is a steroid-free cream containing a 1% strength of the topical immunomodulator pimecrolimus. It was specifically developed as a treatment for atopic dermatitis and is approved for use in children as young as 2 years of age.

As mentioned by Dr Chin, Elidel is not known to cause hypopigmentation. In fact, it has been used to treat hypopigmentation for example in the case of vitiligo with the goal to replenish the lost melanocytes by immigration from the hair follicle and to restore the normal function of melanogenesis by residual melanocytes.

However, there are also reported cases of Elidel induced tinea incognito (a fungal infection of the skin masked and often exacerbated by application of topical immunosuppressive agents such as steroid). This could cause post-inflammatory hypopigmentation.

I would advise to stop Elidel and seek consultation with your skin doctor for further assessment and subsequent management.

Topical elidel is not known to cause hypopigmentation unlike with the use of potent topical steroid creams. It will be good that you return to your original doctor for an assessment to determine the nature and cause of your skin problem.

The principle of managing any drug-associated side effect is to stop using the drug. In most situation, the side effect will spontaneously resolve with time.

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