A comparative study for the topical treatment of atopic dermatitis with Aloe ferox and Aloe vera in Balb/c mice

Abstract

Background:
Atopic dermatitis (AD) typically develops in patients with a history of allergic ailments, and is characterised by an itchy, inflammatory skin condition with scaling, lichenification, papules, excoriations and pruritus. In AD patients a chronic relapsing inflammatory condition is seen, associated with IgE hyper production. AD flares are largely triggered by environmental factors. However, the exact etiology of AD is unclear and there is a pressing need for new treatment regimens as AD is a chronic condition and requires long term treatment. Historically Aloe has been used to treat skin conditions as well as a variety of other diseases.
Method:
The aim of this study was to investigate and confirm the therapeutic efficacy of Aloe ferox versus a comparator Aloe vera as a topical treatment for Dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome (AEDS) in Balb/c mice. To explore the pathogenesis and treatment of AD, Balb/c mice were sensitized and challenged with 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) for atopic dermatitis induction. Thereafter, mice were treated with either Aloe ferox or Aloe vera applied daily on the dorsal skin for 10 consecutive days. A placebo gel was used for the control mice. Blood was collected at the end of the treatment period and serum IgE levels measured.
Results:
Serum IgE levels were significantly lower in the Aloe ferox group and the Aloe vera group compared to the placebo group. Superiority of Aloe ferox vs. Aloe vera was demonstrated following application of the appropriate pair-wise t-test (p=0.002) as well as from the fact that the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval *(-.090; -.028) for the difference between Aloe ferox and Aloe vera was less than zero.

Conclusion:
These Balb/c mouse models have highlighted the role of allergic sensitization to epicutaneously introduced allergens and taken together, the present data indicated that topical application of Aloe ferox and Aloe vera can suppress chronic AD by a comparatively selective reduction of Th2 responses. Furthermore, is was shown that not only is Aloe ferox effective in treating AD but is also superior to Aloe vera for its effectiveness in treating AD and achieved a good cosmetic result without any side-effects such as alopecia, telangiectasia and skin atrophy. Therefore, Aloe may be useful as an alternative or intermittent treatment for the management of patients with recurring or chronic AD who require long-term therapy.