Meta-analysis of studies of cancer risk with topical calcineurin inhibitors for atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a prevalent condition in children, and can be effectively managed with topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs; pimecrolimus or tacrolimus). In 2006, the FDA announced a black-box warning citing post-marketing reports of increased risk of lymphoma and skin cancers with use of TCIs. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 110 unique studies, including 3.4 million patients followed-up for a mean of 11 months, found that use of TCIs for atopic dermatitis was not associated with increased risk of cancers (OR 1.03; 95% credible interval 0.94-1.11). The authors conclude that these findings support the safe use of TCIs for atopic dermatitis.