A prospective pilot study assessed the effects of tacrolimus ointment 0.1% in 53 patients with chronic recalcitrant external otitis (EO) of noninfectious etiology. Clinical assessments occurred prior to treatment (V1), at the end (V2) and during follow-up of 28 patients over 10-22 months (V3). There was a clear improvement in 85% (n=45) at V2 and a significant decrease in symptom severity scores (p<0.001). Long-term follow-up (V3) demonstrated complete remission in 46% of patients. Tacrolimus was well tolerated except for occasional stinging, burning or itching (Harth, W. et al. Eur J Dermatol 2007, 17(5): 405-411).