H C Korting

Publications of H C Korting

• Bioavailability, Antipsoriatic Efficacy and Tolerability of a New Light Cream with Mometasone Furoate 0.1%

  Authors: H C Korting, C Schöllmann, C Willers, W Wigger-Alberti

  Skin pharmacology and physiology. 02/2012; 25(3):133-141.

  Mometasone furoate, a potent glucocorticoid (class III) with a favorable benefit/risk ratio, has emerged as a standard medication for the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders. The purpose of theMometasone furoate, a potent glucocorticoid (class III) with a favorable benefit/risk ratio, has emerged as a standard medication for the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders. The purpose of the investigation presented here was to determine the noninferiority of a topical mometasone formulation, a light cream (O/W 60/40 emulsion) with mometasone furoate 0.1% (water content of 33%) versus marketed comparators. Using the vasoconstrictor assay, a strong blanching effect of the new cream (called Mometasone cream) comparable to that of a mometasone comparator, a fatty cream with mometasone furoate 0.1%, could be demonstrated. Thus, the topical bioavailability of the active ingredient mometasone furoate (0.1%) was regarded to be similar for Mometasone cream and the mometasone comparator. Using the psoriasis plaque test, a strong antipsoriatic effect comparable to that of the mometasone comparator was found for Mometasone cream after 12 days of occlusive treatment. A nearly identical reduction in the mean infiltrate thickness and similar mean AUC values were noted with both formulations confirmed by clinical assessment data. The noninferiority of Mometasone cream to its active comparator with respect to the AUC of change to baseline in infiltrate thickness was demonstrated. Both medications were well tolerated. Overall, Mometasone cream and the mometasone comparator showed similar efficacy and tolerability. Mometasone cream, in addition to its high potency and good tolerability, provides the properties of a light cream, which might make this new medication particularly suitable for application on acutely inflamed and sensitive skin.

• Topical fluticasone propionate: intervention and maintenance treatment options of atopic dermatitis based on a high therapeutic index.

  Authors: H C Korting, C Schöllmann

  Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV. 02/2012; 26(2):133-40.

  Fluticasone propionate (FP), a medium potent glucocorticoid (class III) of carbothioate nature with a favourable benefit/risk ratio, has emerged as a standard medication for the topical treatment ofFluticasone propionate (FP), a medium potent glucocorticoid (class III) of carbothioate nature with a favourable benefit/risk ratio, has emerged as a standard medication for the topical treatment of inflammatory skin disorders, in particular atopic dermatitis (AD). FP is available as a 0.05% cream and a 0.005% ointment formulation. The glucocorticoid is characterized by high lipophilicity, high affinity binding to the glucocorticoid receptor and a rapid hepatic biotransformation. Though skin blanching following topical application of FP surpasses that given with glucocorticoids of medium strength, clinical trials show a low potential of FP for local and systemic adverse effects. Even in paediatric patients with AD as well as in difficult-to-treat areas like face, eyelids and intertriginous areas, FP proved to be both effective and safe. Thus, the therapeutic effects of FP clearly outweigh the unwanted effects. Correspondingly, a therapeutic index of 2.0 can be attributed to this glucocorticoid. In this respect, topical FP does not differ from other topical glucocorticoids with increased benefit-to-risk ratio, e.g. prednicarbate, methylprednisolone aceponate and mometasone furoate. However, randomized controlled trials do not only support conventional intervention but also innovative maintenance treatment.

• [Non-pharmacologic management of rosacea].

  Authors: C Borelli, H C Korting

  Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift für Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete. 11/2011; 62(11):828-33.

  Rosacea is like no other disease a problem for patients regarding the use of skin care and cleaning products. The subjective assessment of the severity of the illness is an important factor regardingRosacea is like no other disease a problem for patients regarding the use of skin care and cleaning products. The subjective assessment of the severity of the illness is an important factor regarding the development of depression in these patients. Inadequate skin care and cleaning products can lead to irritation and stinging of the skin. Dermatologists should address questions regarding skin care, cleaning and sun screens. Because of the higher irritability of the skin of rosacea patients, all possibly irritating cleaning products or procedures should be avoided. The water temperature is also important; it should be lukewarm to avoid the provocation of a vascular reaction. Soaps should be avoided, because they are alkaline and thus lead to a higher pH of the skin. A higher pH of the skin can lead to irritation. Appropriate make-up causes no aggravation of the skin and increases patient's satisfaction with their skin and thus leads to a higher compliance with pharmacological therapy. Laser or intense pulsed light treatment can improve telangiectasia or erythema. Operative treatment of rhinophyma is effective and well-established.

• Management of minor acute cutaneous wounds: importance of wound healing in a moist environment.

  Authors: H C Korting, C Schöllmann, R J White

  Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV. 02/2011; 25(2):130-7.

  Moist wound care has been established as standard therapy for chronic wounds with impaired healing. Healing in acute wounds, in particular in minor superficial acute wounds - which indeed are muchMoist wound care has been established as standard therapy for chronic wounds with impaired healing. Healing in acute wounds, in particular in minor superficial acute wounds - which indeed are much more numerous than chronic wounds - is often taken for granted because it is assumed that in those wounds normal phases of wound healing should run per se without any problems. But minor wounds such as small cuts, scraps or abrasions also need proper care to prevent complications, in particular infections. Local wound care with minor wounds consists of thorough cleansing with potable tap water or normal saline followed by the application of an appropriate dressing corresponding to the principles of moist wound treatment. In the treatment of smaller superficial wounds, it appears advisable to limit the choice of dressing to just a few products that fulfil the principles of moist wound management and are easy to use. Hydroactive colloid gels combining the attributes of hydrocolloids and hydrogels thus being appropriate for dry and exuding wounds appear especially suitable for this purpose - although there is still a lack of data from systematic studies on the effectiveness of these preparations.

• Cream or foam in pedal skin care: towards the ideal vehicle for urea used against dry skin.

  Authors: C Borelli, S Bielfeldt, S Borelli, M Schaller, H C Korting

  International journal of cosmetic science. 02/2011; 33(1):37-43.

  The aim of this study was to evaluate different urea-containing cosmetic preparations designed for foot care regarding skin occlusion. The primary aim was therefore to screen the short-termThe aim of this study was to evaluate different urea-containing cosmetic preparations designed for foot care regarding skin occlusion. The primary aim was therefore to screen the short-term transepidermal water loss (TEWL) as a parameter for skin barrier function and skin occlusion and to characterize the relative role of the vehicle, i.e. cream or foam in the context of cosmetics containing urea in the 2-10% range addressing the cosmetic products urea 2% cream (GEHWOL FUSSKRAFT blau), petrolatum containing cream (GEHWOL med Schrundensalbe), urea 10% cream (GEHWOL med Lipidro-Crème), urea 10% foam (Allpresan Fuss Schaum) and vaseline (positive control) compared with an untreated area on the volar forearms of volunteers. Moreover, the short time (24 h) kinetics regarding the moisturizing effect of cream and foam formulations in diabetic patients were compared. The efficacy of a cream on reduction of skin thickness of hyperkeratotic skin in the heel region before and after a period of product application was also evaluated. In some of the trials, healthy individuals and in others, diabetic patients (type I and II) were enrolled. TEWL was determined before product application, as well as at given points of time thereafter. In this study, no excessive occlusion effects comparable with a blockage of the skin's natural water evaporation could be observed for any of the test products. To the extent to be expected, this was found neither for the cream products nor for the foam product. Slightly lowered TEWL values after application of the 10% urea cream can be interpreted as a beneficial effect in terms of an improved barrier function. Regarding skin moisture, the urea-containing cream formulation appeared equal or slightly superior to the foam formulation. The thickness of the horny layer was found reduced after application of 10 % urea-containing cream. At present it looks as if cream vehicles would still be vehicles of choice in general, when it comes to the formulation of skin care preparations for not only dry skin but also in the context of pedal skin care.

• Resistance of liposomal sunscreen formulations against plain water as well as salt water exposure and perspiration.

  Authors: H C Korting, C Schöllmann

  Skin pharmacology and physiology. 01/2011; 24(1):36-43.

  The present in vivo investigation using a total of 30 healthy adult volunteers with Fitzpatrick skin type II examines the persistent efficacy of sunscreens using liposomal suspensions as the vehicle.The present in vivo investigation using a total of 30 healthy adult volunteers with Fitzpatrick skin type II examines the persistent efficacy of sunscreens using liposomal suspensions as the vehicle. Based on the COLIPA guidelines, the protective effect of a single application of 4 different liposomal sunscreen formulations (sun protection factors, SPFs: 50+, 30, 25 and 15) against sunburn at the recommended amount of 2 mg/cm(2) was determined after exposure of the skin to plain water and salt water and after profuse perspiration. Under the influence of plain water, salt water and sweating, the SPF values of sunscreen 1 (labeled SPF of 50+) were reduced only marginally to 97, 96 and 99%, respectively, those of sunscreen 2 (labeled SPF of 30) to 97, 96 and 99%, respectively, those of sunscreen 3 (labeled SPF of 25) to 90, 83 and 91%, respectively, and those of sunscreen 4 (labeled SPF of 15) to 96, 96 and 95%, respectively. This set of data shows that despite plain water and salt water immersion or profuse sweating, the liposomal sunscreen formulation may deliver a long-lasting protective effect in everyday situations encountered by outdoor workers or during leisure activities.

• Interaction of drug-carrier systems with targets--a study using atomic force microscopy.

  Authors: T Blaschke, T Spangenberg, P Schlupp, M Dathe, W Szcymczak, W Mehnert, H C Korting, S Thalhammer, H Niehus, M Schäfer-Korting, K D Kramer

  Die Pharmazie. 09/2010; 65(9):657-64.

  To learn about the interaction between drug agents and nanoparticular carrier systems, the physical analytical methods of parelectric, electron spin and fluorescence spectroscopy have proven helpfulTo learn about the interaction between drug agents and nanoparticular carrier systems, the physical analytical methods of parelectric, electron spin and fluorescence spectroscopy have proven helpful tools to yield descriptive models of such complex systems. For a deeper understanding of drug absorption from body surfaces and drug distribution into the tissues, however, the lack of knowledge about the interaction between such agents and membranes on different levels is a severe drawback. This gap can be closed by the application of atomic force microscopy at normal temperatures and under the admission of liquid surroundings. Moreover, this method allows the inspection of such system-membrane interactions in dependence on time. We studied membrane topography in liquid and gel-phase mixtures, structural changes of membranes during their destruction by aqueous peptide solutions as well as the stability of the membranes exposed to surfactants of increasing concentration and to lipid nanoparticles (solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers). For future modelling we can describe the geometry of lipid nanoparticles as well.

• Efficacy and tolerability of pale sulfonated shale oil cream 4% in the treatment of mild to moderate atopic eczema in children: a multicentre, randomized vehicle-controlled trial.

  Authors: H C Korting, C Schöllmann, W Cholcha, L Wolff

  Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV. 03/2010; 24(10):1176-82.

  Reports on controlled trials on the efficacy and tolerability of sulfonated shale oils in atopic eczema are not available so far. The aim of this study was to investigate whether topically applied,Reports on controlled trials on the efficacy and tolerability of sulfonated shale oils in atopic eczema are not available so far. The aim of this study was to investigate whether topically applied, specially prepared pale sulfonated shale oil (PSSO) cream is capable of improving symptoms/signs of mild to moderate atopic eczema in children more efficaciously than a corresponding vehicle cream. A total of 99 children suffering from mild to moderate atopic eczema were enrolled in this multicentre, randomized, vehicle-controlled study. Verum or vehicle cream was applied to the affected skin area three times a day over 4 weeks. As the primary outcome parameter served the reduction of the total score after 4 weeks of treatment, compared with the initial examination. Secondary outcome parameters were addressed as well. Tolerability was judged by investigators and patients/parents, and adverse events were documented. After 4 weeks of treatment, the total score declined from 13.4 ± 3.7 to 4.5 ± 7.4 score points in the verum group and from 13.0 ± 3.1 to 11.7 ± 8.6 score points in the vehicle group (P < 0.0001). The superiority of verum regarding total score was already apparent after a treatment period of 1 week (reduction by 5.6 ± 4.3 vs. 1.3 ± 5.9 score points; P < 0.0001). Tolerability was found superior at the end of the treatment in the verum when compared with the control group--both by investigators (P < 0.0001) and patients/parents (P = 0.0051). Pale sulfonated shale oil cream 4% is capable to treat mild to moderate atopic eczema in children more efficaciously than vehicle and is well tolerated. PSSO thus represents a valuable addition to our therapeutic armamentarium. PSSO should be considered in particular when valid alternatives for topical glucocorticoids are sought for.

• [Acne vulgaris].

  Authors: H C Korting, P Lehmann

  Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift für Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete. 02/2010; 61(2):97-8.

• [Acne vulgaris. Role of cosmetics].

  Authors: H C Korting, C Borelli, C Schöllmann

  Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift für Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete. 02/2010; 61(2):126-31.

  Appropriate cosmetics for skin cleansing are capable of contributing to a reduction of especially inflammatory lesions in acne-prone patients and to support pharmacological intervention in patientsAppropriate cosmetics for skin cleansing are capable of contributing to a reduction of especially inflammatory lesions in acne-prone patients and to support pharmacological intervention in patients with manifest acne. Cleansing of acne-prone skin should employ acidified synthetic cleansers with a pH of 5.5 rather than soap. Furthermore, the ingredients of certain skin care products, i.e. nicotinamide, lactic acid, triethyl acetate/ethyllineolate, and prebiotic plant extracts, affect different mechanisms of acne pathogenesis and therefore may contribute to a decrease in acne lesions. At least some of these ingredients underscore the concept of evidence-based cosmetics. In contrast, the problem of acne lesions caused by comedogenic ingredients in cosmetics today is negligible.

• [Physical treatment methods for acne. Light, laser, photodynamic therapy and peeling].

  Authors: C Borelli, H C Korting

  Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift für Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete. 02/2010; 61(2):132-8.

  The medical treatment of acne is generally sufficient to meet the expectations of acne patients. However, in a number of situations additional therapeutic approaches may be advisable. There are aThe medical treatment of acne is generally sufficient to meet the expectations of acne patients. However, in a number of situations additional therapeutic approaches may be advisable. There are a wide variety of useful physical methods. They range from electromagnetic waves, usually light, to peeling and manual therapy. Phototherapy of acne includes not just visible light but also laser and flash lamp therapy. The present review provides an overview on the evidence. Visible light, in particular blue light, provides an effective option for treatment of inflammatory acne. Photodynamic therapy also is efficacious; however, it should not be used because of an unfavorable risk-benefit ratio. UV treatment of acne is obsolete. Newer studies on the use of a variety of laser systems and flash lamps have demonstrated in part rewarding results.

• Innovative agents for actinic keratosis and nanocarriers enhancing skin penetration.

  Authors: M Schäfer-Korting, M Höltje, H C Korting, H-D Höltje

  Skin pharmacology and physiology. 01/2010; 23(1):6-14.

  Actinic keratosis and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma are of increasing importance with aging and increased ultraviolet light exposure in Western societies. Efficient and well-tolerated therapy isActinic keratosis and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma are of increasing importance with aging and increased ultraviolet light exposure in Western societies. Efficient and well-tolerated therapy is still a matter of concern. As with tumours of other organs, new target sites and innovative drugs selectively addressing them are widely looked for. Due to the relevance for DNA synthesis and thus cell proliferation, human DNA polymerase alpha should be such a target, the more so as the three-dimensional structure of the active site has been proposed based on the application of molecular modelling methods and molecular dynamics simulations. The modelled structure of the active site was used for docking nucleotide analogues in order to design selective inhibitors. Consequently, well-fitting thymidine and guanosine analogues were synthesized and tested in vitro for their influence on normal and transformed human keratinocytes. In fact, the combination of modelling studies and in vitro tests allowed us to design antiproliferative and cytotoxic agents which are new drug candidates for the therapy of skin tumours, given the agents are no relevant substrates of nucleotide transporters (MRP-4, MRP-5) expressed by skin cancer cells. Essential kinases for nucleoside activation were detected, too, corresponding with the observed effects of nucleoside analogues. Due to the rather high molecular weight and poor solubility, however, skin penetration should be poor and thus topical therapy may require carriers to improve the uptake. This becomes feasible by lipidic and non-lipidic nanoparticles which can enhance the uptake of lipophilic agents up to 13-fold.

• The Phenion(R) Full-Thickness Skin Model for Percutaneous Absorption Testing.

  Authors: K Ackermann, S Lombardi Borgia, H C Korting, K R Mewes, M Schäfer-Korting

  Skin pharmacology and physiology. 12/2009; 23(2):105-112.

  In recent years many efforts have been made to replace dermal toxicity testing of chemicals in the animal by in vitro assays. As a member of a German research consortium, we have previouslyIn recent years many efforts have been made to replace dermal toxicity testing of chemicals in the animal by in vitro assays. As a member of a German research consortium, we have previously contributed to the validation of an in vitro test protocol for percutaneous absorption studies on the basis of reconstructed human epidermis and both human and pig skin ex vivo. Aiming to assess the barrier properties of a newly developed reconstructed skin model, this protocol has now been transferred to the Phenion(R) Full-Thickness Skin Model (FT model). The permeation of testosterone and caffeine was quantified in parallel to that of pig skin using Franz-type diffusion cells. In addition, the permeation of benzoic acid and nicotine was studied. As expected, the FT model is more permeable than pig skin, yet its barrier properties are well in accordance with those of reconstructed human epidermis when compared to previous data. In fact, the FT model most efficiently retards testosterone as the compound of highest lipophilicity, which can be explained by an additional uptake by a reservoir formed by the dermis equivalent. Thus, the structure closely parallels human skin. In consequence, the Phenion FT model appears to be suitable for percutaneous absorption studies in hazard analysis and should be subjected to a catch-up validation study.

• Tetracycline Actions Relevant to Rosacea Treatment.

  Authors: H C Korting, C Schöllmann

  Skin pharmacology and physiology. 09/2009; 22(6):287-294.

  Until today, the pathogenesis of rosacea is not known in detail. Yet in recent years evidence has been accumulating that rosacea with its common symptoms such as inflammatory lesions, erythema,Until today, the pathogenesis of rosacea is not known in detail. Yet in recent years evidence has been accumulating that rosacea with its common symptoms such as inflammatory lesions, erythema, telangiectasia, phymatous changes, and ocular symptoms is of inflammatory nature. Tetracycline derivatives like doxycycline successfully used in the treatment of skin diseases like acne and rosacea seem to inhibit different inflammatory pathways involved in the pathogenesis by various modes of action. Although data for skin diseases are relatively scanty, the following modes of action of tetracyclines seem to be most relevant for an effective treatment of acne and rosacea: inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases, downmodulation of cytokines, inhibition of cell movement and proliferation, inhibition of granuloma formation, inhibition of reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide, and angiogenesis, whereas inhibition of phospholipase A2 seems to be of lower importance. The role of the saprophytic mite Demodex folliculorum remains to be clarified. Additional studies are necessary to further elucidate how tetracyclines work in rosacea treatment.

• [Management of acne vulgaris: Focus on clindamycin and zinc.]

  Authors: H C Korting, C Schöllmann

  Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete. 01/2009;

  Topical antibiotics, especially clindamycin, are well-accepted in the treatment of mild to moderate acne. Combinations of clindamycin and other agents such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids or zinc, areTopical antibiotics, especially clindamycin, are well-accepted in the treatment of mild to moderate acne. Combinations of clindamycin and other agents such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids or zinc, are possibly superior to clindamycin monotherapy regarding efficacy and tolerability with the combination 1% clindamycin/5% benzoyl peroxide being particularly well-supported by evidence. Moreover, a recent study has shown that patients themselves prefer a complex of zinc acetate/clindamycin phosphate.

• [Conventional and molecular diagnosis of cutaneous mycoses.]

  Authors: C Borelli, B Beifuß, S Borelli, M Schaller, H C Korting

  Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete. 12/2008;

  The clinical presentation of fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails is varied and sometimes presents a confusing clinical picture. The main objective is to rapidly institute diagnosticThe clinical presentation of fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails is varied and sometimes presents a confusing clinical picture. The main objective is to rapidly institute diagnostic measures to avoid delays in therapy with potential expansion of the infection. A variety of laboratory tests are required. Classical methods are based on microscopy, different culture procedures, and histologic examination. Genotypic approaches to detection and identification of fungal pathogens have become very rapid and sensitive, making them additional options for routine diagnosis.

• [Characterization of the interaction between Candida albicans and host cells : In vitro model using reconstituted human skin and mucosa.]

  Authors: M Schaller, K Zakikhany, G Weindl, C Borelli, H C Korting, B Hube

  Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete. 12/2008;

  Basic research on the biology and immunology of microbial infection requires appropriate model systems. Currently most such studies involve animal studies which are a focus of ethical controversy.Basic research on the biology and immunology of microbial infection requires appropriate model systems. Currently most such studies involve animal studies which are a focus of ethical controversy. Possible alternatives, especially for localized infections, are provided by models using in vitro reconstituted human epithelium or epidermis (RHE). In recent years, these model systems have been successfully established to evaluate the effectiveness of topical anti-infectives, to characterize the role of fungal virulence factors, and to study the immune responses during localized Candida albicans infections. Most recently, these models have been supplemented with immune cells such as lymphocytes, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, mast cells or dendritic cells, to study their role during the course of infection and to characterize the interaction between the skin barrier and accessory immune cells. Although the most experience is with Candida albicans RHE infections, such model systems can also be used to study infections with other fungi or bacteria.

• [Therapeutic or prophylactic antifungal vaccination: problems and solutions].

  Authors: S Boneberger, H C Korting

  Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift für Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete. 10/2008; 59(10):828-32.

  Due to a growing number of immunosuppressed patients after organ transplantation or antineoplastic chemotherapy, the significance of fungal infections has increased worldwide. In the future a largeDue to a growing number of immunosuppressed patients after organ transplantation or antineoplastic chemotherapy, the significance of fungal infections has increased worldwide. In the future a large number of clinical studies with regard to genetically engineered vaccines - based on already performed pre-clinical investigations - will be conducted. However, classic vaccines might be of limited efficacy in fungal infections since fungi elicit primarily cellular immune responses.

• Modes of Action of the New Arylguanidine Abafungin beyond Interference with Ergosterol Biosynthesis and in vitro Activity against Medically Important Fungi.

  Authors: C Borelli, M Schaller, M Niewerth, K Nocker, B Baasner, D Berg, R Tiemann, K Tietjen, B Fugmann, S Lang-Fugmann, H C Korting

  Chemotherapy. 07/2008; 54(4):245-259.

  Background:In contrast to the increasing numbers of agents for the treatment of invasive fungal infections, discoveries of new antifungal agents with therapeutic value in dermatomycoses are reportedBackground:In contrast to the increasing numbers of agents for the treatment of invasive fungal infections, discoveries of new antifungal agents with therapeutic value in dermatomycoses are reported only rarely. Methods: Abafungin (chemical abstracts service registry No. 129639-79/8) is the first member of a novel class of synthetic antifungal compounds, the arylguanidines. It was first synthesized at Bayer AG, Leverkusen, Germany, and its antifungal action was discovered during the screening of H(2)-receptor antagonists based on the structure of famotidine. To obtain insight into its mode of action and antifungal activity, various tests were carried out with different fungal pathogensin vitro. Results: Abafungin was found to have potent antifungal activity. Furthermore, mode-of-action studies suggested that abafungin exerts its antifungal activity regardless of whether the pathogens are growing or in a resting state. One target of abafungin was found to be the inhibition of transmethylation at the C-24 position of the sterol side chain, catalyzed by the enzyme sterol-C-24-methyltransferase. A second action of abafungin seems to be a direct effect on the fungal cell membrane.Conclusion: The observed characteristics of abafungin indicate that abafungin might be a promising antifungal agent defining a new class of antimycotics.

• Fungicidal activity plus reservoir effect allow short treatment courses with terbinafine in tinea pedis.

  Authors: M Schäfer-Korting, C Schoellmann, H C Korting

  Skin pharmacology and physiology. 02/2008; 21(4):203-10.

  Terbinafine, a synthetic allylamine, exerts fungicidal activity against dermatophytes, the causative pathogens of tinea pedis. As proven in numerous clinical trials, tinea pedis can be effectivelyTerbinafine, a synthetic allylamine, exerts fungicidal activity against dermatophytes, the causative pathogens of tinea pedis. As proven in numerous clinical trials, tinea pedis can be effectively and safely treated by topical terbinafine. In fact, a 1-week application of terbinafine 1% cream eradicated fungal pathogens at least as effectively as 4-week treatment courses with topical azole derivative antifungals and showed lower relapse rates. A new innovative single-application formulation of terbinafine 1% in a film-forming solution produces a high concentration gradient on the skin surface and enables a prolonged (up to 13 days) exposure of the skin to terbinafine. High drug penetration into the skin results in an otherwise not obtained drug reservoir in the horny layer, the location of dermatophytes in tinea pedis. Although azole antimycotics can also effectively penetrate into the horny layer of the skin, short-term therapy might not be feasible due to its primarily fungistatic activity against dermatophytes. Thus, we conclude that the high efficacy of short-term treatment with terbinafine in patients with tinea pedis is possible due to its fungicidal activity coupled with a distinct reservoir formation in the upper layers of the epidermis.