Apitherapy is Effective Treatment for Plaque Psoriasis

Efficacy of the Apitherapy in the treatment of recalcitrant localized plaque psoriasis and evaluation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) serum level: a Double blind randomized clinical trial

J Dermatolog Treat. 2014 Nov 26:1-19. [Epub ahead of print]

Background: No universal consensus about optimal modality for treating the recalcitrant localized plaque psoriasis (RLPP).

Objective: To evaluate the immunological and clinical therapeutic effect of using Apitherapy in the treatment of RLPP.

Methods: Randomized fifty patients with RLPP received Apitherapy (n = 25) and placebo (n = 25) every week. Both treatments were injected into lesions at weekly intervals for a maximum of 12 treatments. Following up was 6 months later. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) level was measured at pre-study and at 12th week. 

Results: A significant difference was found between the therapeutic responses of RLPP to Apitherapy and placebo group (P < 0.001). In the Apitherapy group, complete response was achieved in 92 % of patients. There was statistically significant decrease in TNF-α in Apitherapy group versus placebo group. No recurrence was observed in Apitherapy group.

Conclusion: Apitherapy is effective and safe treatment for recalcitrant localized plaque psoriasis, when other topical or physical therapies have failed.