European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that requires effective long-term management. Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are standard therapy, but concerns about adverse effects and adherence have driven interest in topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) as alternatives. This study aimed to compare the long-term efficacy, safety, adherence, and patient satisfaction of TCS versus TCIs in patients with moderate AD. Methods: A comparative observational study was conducted in the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July 2010 to June 2011. Sixty patients with moderate AD were enrolled and equally divided into two groups: TCS (n=30) and TCI (n=30). Clinical efficacy was evaluated using EASI reduction, Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), and composite treatment success. Safety outcomes, treatment adherence, and patient satisfaction were assessed at six months. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 17.0, with significance set at p≤0.05. Results: Both groups showed significant improvement after six months. Mean EASI reduction was 68.0% in the TCS group and 72.5% in the TCI group (p=0.18). Treatment success was achieved in 66.7% (TCS) and 73.3% (TCI) (p = 0.57). Application-site burning was more frequent in the TCI group (26.7% vs. 10.0%), while skin atrophy occurred only in the TCS group (6.7%). Adherence and satisfaction were high in both groups, with slightly higher preference for continued therapy among TCI users. Conclusion: Both TCS and TCIs are effective and safe for the long-term management of moderate AD, with no significant differences noted. Treatment choice should consider safety profile, cost, and patient preference.