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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Diabetic, On Treatment For Fatty Liver And Hepatomegaly, Have Itching And Burning In Scrotum Area, Prescribed Tacrolimus. Will It Harm Me?

I am 35 yrs old, male with diabetes. I was having itching and burning sensation in my scrotum area for the last two months. My doctor gave many creams but they all were making the condition worse. So ultimately he asked me to apply tacrolimus 0.03 % ointment which has given some relief. Due to excessive drinking for many years, my liver has been affected – fatty and hepatomegaly for which treatment is going on like abstinence from alcohol, vitamins etc. I have read that tacrolimus is used orally to suppress the immune system in organ transplant patients. So, my question is whether topical use of tacrolimus ointment harm me ?? I mean my immune system is weak because of previous malnutrition and alcohol (not drinking anymore), so will this topical tacrolimus weaken the immune system further and I have also read that it can also harm the liver ?? Do these things happen only with oral or intraveinous use of tacrolimus or can topical application also weaken the immune system and harm the liver OR is it safe ??
Mon, 17 Sep 2012
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Diabetologist 's  Response

Dear Mr Divir

you are very correct , it was drug used for Immune suppression. But topical preparation ( skin ointment) can be used for Atopic Dermatitis ( It is a type of allergic dermatitis). Better reconfirm with your treating doctor , if necessary you can take a Dermatologist opinion also in this regard. But while applying there should not be broken skin , it may get absorbed and systemic side effects may be more. treatment with this topical drug should not be more than 6 weeks.

Do not get panic , this topical preparation may not cause immune suppression .

take care


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Diabetic, On Treatment For Fatty Liver And Hepatomegaly, Have Itching And Burning In Scrotum Area, Prescribed Tacrolimus. Will It Harm Me?

Dear Mr Divir you are very correct , it was drug used for Immune suppression. But topical preparation ( skin ointment) can be used for Atopic Dermatitis ( It is a type of allergic dermatitis). Better reconfirm with your treating doctor , if necessary you can take a Dermatologist opinion also in this regard. But while applying there should not be broken skin , it may get absorbed and systemic side effects may be more. treatment with this topical drug should not be more than 6 weeks. Do not get panic , this topical preparation may not cause immune suppression . take care