Use of active metabolites of vitamin D orally for the treatment of psoriasis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyse the existing bibliographic production on clinical trials related to the use of vitamin D for oral treatment of psoriasis.

METHOD: A literature review of clinical trials related to the use of vitamin D for oral treatment of psoriasis, published in the LILACS, Scielo, Medline, PubMed and Cochrane Library from 1986 to 2013. The search included the following terms: "Psoriasis and oral Vitamin D"; "psoríase e vitamina D oral".

RESULTS: After analysing the titles and summaries, 10 articles met the eligibility criteria.

DISCUSSION: According to the literature, most tests were made in moderate psoriasis with doses ranging from 0.25 to 2μg, demonstrating improvement with this treatment modality. Some studies suggest the use of high doses, but the biggest concern is hypercalciuria as a side effect.

CONCLUSION: The use of active metabolites of vitamin D orally for the treatment of psoriasis showed efficacy and safety.