Abstract | BACKGROUND: OBJECTIVES: We sought to investigate the efficacy of FAE in a larger number of patients with NL. METHODS: Eighteen patients with histopathologically proven NL were consecutively recruited into a prospective noncontrolled study. Dosage of FAE was given according to the standard therapy regimen for psoriasis. FAE were administered for at least 6 months. The treatment outcome was evaluated by means of clinical and histological scoring and 20-MHz ultrasound assessments. RESULTS: Three patients discontinued therapy with FAE, while the remaining 15 patients finished the study. After a mean +/- SD treatment period of 7.7 +/- 2.9 months, a significant (P < 0.001) decrease in the mean +/- SD clinical score, from 7.4 +/- 1.8 at the beginning to 2.5 +/- 1.3 at the end of therapy, was observed. Significant clinical improvement of NL was accompanied by significant (P = 0.019) increase of dermal density as assessed by means of 20-MHz ultrasound, and significant (P = 0.011) reduction of the histological score. Adverse effects were moderate and consisted mainly of gastrointestinal complaints and flushing. During follow-up of at least 6 months, clinical outcome remained stable in all patients. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study demonstrate that FAE are beneficial and safe in the treatment of patients with NL.
|
Authors | A Kreuter, C Knierim, M Stücker, F Pawlak, S Rotterdam, P Altmeyer, T Gambichler |
Journal | The British journal of dermatology
(Br J Dermatol)
Vol. 153
Issue 4
Pg. 802-7
(Oct 2005)
ISSN: 0007-0963 [Print] England |
PMID | 16181464
(Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article)
|
Chemical References |
- Dermatologic Agents
- Drug Combinations
- Fumarates
- Dimethyl Fumarate
- ethyl fumarate
|
Topics |
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Dermatologic Agents
(adverse effects, therapeutic use)
- Dimethyl Fumarate
- Drug Combinations
- Female
- Fumarates
(adverse effects, therapeutic use)
- Humans
- Leg Dermatoses
(diagnostic imaging, drug therapy, pathology)
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Necrobiosis Lipoidica
(diagnostic imaging, drug therapy, pathology)
- Prospective Studies
- Severity of Illness Index
- Skin
(diagnostic imaging)
- Treatment Outcome
- Ultrasonography
|