P9.117 Effectiveness of the association Cetirizine - topical steroids in some cases of Lichen Planus-Pilaris and Pseudoarea of Brocq – Pilot Study

d’Ovidio R*, Claudatus J° and Di Prima T^

*AIDA-Tricologia,° Clinica S.Rita Bari,^Università di Catania -Italy

Lichen Planus is a T-cell mediated immunological disease. Keratinocytes of the basal layer may represent the “target/victim” of immune aggression with great similarities to Graft-versus-Host disease. Further evidence shows that mast cells act as a key factor in the disease through an increase in number, many of which are activated.

Objectives: These data provide a further therapeutic opportunity: the use of some anti-histamines in a “anti-inflammatory” regimen.

Methods: Starting from the experience with Hydroxyzine, we propose the use of Cetirizine at the dosage of 30mg/day. 14 patients affected by Lichen planus-pilaris of the scalp and 4 patients affected by Pseudoarea of Brocq were treated. Topical application of steroids (Clobetasol or Betamethasone) was maintained in all cases during the therapy.

Results: Clinical effects were achieved in all patients but one. Two patients relapsed after discontinuation of the therapy. In both cases, remission was achieved by the readministration of the treatment.

Conclusions: Our cases indicate that a combined therapy of topical steroid with cetirizine can be a safe and effective choice even in several cases of LP and/or Pseudoarea, which is often refractory to therapy.