Galderma: 'Clear' (IGA 0) Rosacea Patients Experience a Delayed Time to Relapse

LAUSANNE, Switzerland, September 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Today, the results of a pooled analysis of four Galderma-sponsored studies evaluating the use of topical therapies for the treatment of inflammatory papules and pustules of rosacea were presented at the 26th European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress in Geneva, Switzerland. The success of rosacea treatment is usually defined as a score of 1 ('almost clear') or 0 ('clear') on the 5-point Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) scale. The new analysis reports that rosacea patients who achieve 'clear' (IGA 0), not only experience a more complete reduction in inflammatory lesions compared with patients who achieve 'almost clear' (IGA 1), but also an extended time to relapse that is associated with improved quality of life.

The analysis, titled 'Defining treatment success in rosacea as 'clear' may provide multiple patient benefits: Results of a pooled analysis,' is the first-of-its-kind to report on the differences in patient-reported outcomes, quality of life, and time to relapse associated with 'clear' (IGA 0) and 'almost clear' (IGA 1) patients.

"Rosacea is a chronic dermatological disease with remissions and exacerbations. Improving treatment options with earlier effective treatment and longer remission times may not only control symptoms, but also delay progression of the disease," commented study author Guy Webster, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA. "This first-of-its-kind analysis shows that both remission time and quality of life are improved if patients achieve an endpoint of 'clear' (IGA 0), compared with patients who achieve 'almost clear' (IGA 1)."

In the analysis, patients who achieved 'clear' (IGA 0) were associated with a delayed time to relapse of more than 5 months, compared with patients who achieved 'almost clear' (IGA 1). At 8-month follow-up, twice as many patients who had achieved 'clear' (IGA 0) remained free of treatment compared with patients who had achieved 'almost clear' (IGA 1) (54% vs. 23%). The authors stated that this delayed time to relapse may contribute to improved quality of life and satisfaction with treatment, both in the short term and over the long term. In addition, one-third more 'clear' (IGA 0) patients than 'almost clear' (IGA 1) patients (59% vs. 44%) reported a clinically meaningful difference (≥4 points) in Dermatology Life Quality Index score.

"Because the signs of rosacea are clearly visibly on the face, this inflammatory skin disease is known to have a significant impact on quality of life, with patients reporting embarrassment, anxiety, depression, and low self-confidence," said Gregor Schäfer, Medical Lead at Galderma. "Galderma's rosacea franchise provides healthcare professionals with increased options for addressing important patient needs, including quality of life."

For related multimedia resources and additional information about the CLEAR pooled analysis, please visit www.epresspack.net/galderma-clear/.

Reference:   
Abstract 1685 presented by Jerry Tan at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology congress 2017, Geneva, Switzerland

About Rosacea 
Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin disease that presents variable clinical characteristics, of which the most common are flushing, permanent erythema, and inflammatory lesions. It mainly affects the central areas of the face, such as the cheeks and nose. The disease can affect both adult men and women, usually after the age of 30. Additionally, symptoms such as stinging, burning and increased sensitivity of the skin are common. The eyes are often affected, and might present as red, dry or itchy.

Although the cause of the disease is still under debate, various trigger factors are known, including spicy foods, alcohol, emotional stress, sun/UV-exposure, hot baths and beverages. Demodex, generally harmless mites, can also be found in the skin in an elevated quantity in people with rosacea.

Rosacea may worsen over time if left untreated. People that suspect they suffer from rosacea should visit their dermatologist or healthcare provider for diagnosis and discuss what treatment is right for them. Because rosacea is a highly visible disease, it is known to cause embarrassment and anxiety in some patients, which in turn may cause frustration and have a negative impact on their social life.

About Galderma 
Galderma, Nestlé Skin Health's medical solutions business, was created in 1981 and is now present in over 100 countries with an extensive product portfolio to treat a range of dermatological conditions. The company partners with health care practitioners around the world to meet the skin health needs of people throughout their lifetime. Galderma is a leader in research and development of scientifically defined and medically proven solutions for the skin, hair and nails. For more information, please visit www.galderma.com.