[Methotrexate for the treatment of patients with chronic cutaneous sarcoidosis: 4 cases].

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Pathogenesis of sarcoidosis remains partially unknown. Cutaneous lesions are frequent (20 to 35% of cases). Their clinical features and follow-up data are highly variable. Numerous treatments have been proposed. The clinical features and follow up data of four patients with chronic cutaneous sarcoidosis treated with methotrexate are reported.

CASE REPORT:

Mean age of patients (3 female, 1 male) was 40 years old (34-49 years). One patient presented with a lupus pernio, two patients with papules and nodules, and the last with an annular lesion of the face. All patients had been previously treated with topical corticosteroids and/or hydroxychloroquine without any success. Patients were treated with methotrexate at doses ranging from 12.5 mg to 30 mg per week for at least 6 months. Complete remission of cutaneous lesions was observed in 3 of 4 patients after a mean treatment duration of 29 months (16 to 36). Methotrexate side effects were observed in one patient (elevated liver enzymes) leading to methotrexate discontinuation.

DISCUSSION:

Methotrexate seems to be an effective treatment of cutaneous sarcoidosis. It should be used namely in patients who failed to respond to previous treatments with topical corticosteroids or antimalarial drugs.

• Authors: A Gary, A-B Modeste, C Richard, C Jubert, F Majour, G Nouvet, B Remond, P Joly
• Journal: Annales de dermatologie et de venereologie (Ann Dermatol Venereol) 2005 Aug-Sep Vol. 132 Issue 8-9 Pt 1 Pg. 659-62 ISSN: 0151-9638 [Print] France
• Vernacular Title: Traitement de la sarcoïdose cutanée par le méthotrexate: 4 observations.
• PMID: 16230915 (Publication Type: Case Reports, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Dermatologic Agents
• Methotrexate

Topics

• Adult
• Dermatologic Agents (therapeutic use)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Methotrexate (therapeutic use)
• Middle Aged
• Sarcoidosis (drug therapy, pathology)
• Skin Diseases (drug therapy, pathology)
• Treatment Outcome