Abstract | BACKGROUND: PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a retrospective multicenter study, efficacy of methotrexate in inducing and maintaining remission or response was assessed by Harvey-Bradshaw activity index, paediatric Crohn disease activity index and steroid use, in 25 children with Crohn disease, refractory or intolerant to thiopurine analogues. RESULTS:
Crohn disease was diagnosed at a mean age of 11.1 +/- 3.1 years and methotrexate was initiated at age 14.5 +/- 3.1 years. The median methotrexate dose was 12.5 mg/m2. Remission was achieved in 16 patients (64%), and response in 6 patients (24%). Out of 18 patients treated for longer than 6 months, 83% were in remission or response after 12 months of treatment. The mean duration of remission and response was 10.8 +/- 8.8 months. Steroid withdrawal was possible in 12/16 patients (75%) receiving steroids at methotrexate introduction. Adverse effects were observed in 6 patients (24%) including nausea and vomiting in 3, elevation of liver enzymes in 2 and pancreatitis in 1 patient. CONCLUSIONS:
|
Authors | B Weiss, A Lerner, R Shapiro, E Broide, A Levine, A Fradkin, Y Bujanover |
Journal | Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition
(J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr)
Vol. 48
Issue 5
Pg. 526-30
(May 2009)
ISSN: 1536-4801 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 19412004
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Multicenter Study)
|
Chemical References |
- Immunosuppressive Agents
- Steroids
- Mercaptopurine
- Azathioprine
- Methotrexate
|
Topics |
- Administration, Oral
- Adolescent
- Azathioprine
(therapeutic use)
- Child
- Crohn Disease
(drug therapy)
- Drug Resistance
- Drug Tolerance
- Female
- Humans
- Immunosuppressive Agents
(administration & dosage, adverse effects, therapeutic use)
- Injections, Subcutaneous
- Male
- Mercaptopurine
(therapeutic use)
- Methotrexate
(administration & dosage, adverse effects, therapeutic use)
- Remission Induction
(methods)
- Retrospective Studies
- Steroids
(therapeutic use)
|