Comparison of Indigo Naturalis Oil Extract and Calcipotriol Solution in Treating Psoriasis

Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Indigo Naturalis Oil Extract and Calcipotriol Solution in Patients With Nail Psoriasis

The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of indigo naturalis oil extract and calcipotriol solution in the treatment of psoriatic nails, to show that indigo naturalis oil extract may be a good choice for treating nail psoriasis, and potentially an effective alternative for those who do not respond well to traditional therapy.

In the literature, the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in treating nail psoriasis is rarely reported. Recently, the investigators developed a new product, indigo naturalis oil extract, which worked well in nail disease. In our randomized, observer-blind, vehicle-controlled trial showed that indigo naturalis oil extract is effective and safe in treating nail psoriasis. This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of indigo naturalis oil extract with calcipotriol solution in patients with nail psoriasis using controlled, bilateral comparison

The investigators will enroll 33 patients with nail psoriasis from the ambulatory department of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Indigo naturalis oil extract will be consistently applied on either the left or right affected nail folds, while calcipotriol will be applied on the opposite side, both twice daily for 24 weeks, allowing intra-patient comparison. The nails will be assessed by two dermatologists before treatment and at week 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Nail psoriasis of the matrix and/or of the nail bed in at least one fingernail.
2. Good general health.
3. Agreement to avoid pregnancy for the study duration

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Concomitant topical treatment (corticosteroids), phototherapy, or any systemic treatment (retinoids, cyclosporine, methotrexate, systemic corticosteroids and biological agents) that could affect nail psoriasis.
2. Patients with severe hepatic or renal disorders.
3. Lactating, pregnant or planning pregnancy
4. Unwillingness to comply with study protocol.
5. A history of sensitivity to indigo naturalis. -