Safety of methotrexate, optimal treatment for psoriasis, genetics of SLE and sarcoidosis, drug-related pyoderma gangrenosum and cutaneous LE, a review of dermatomyositis treatment, and discouraging news about patient adherence to therapy
Use of Methotrexate in Psoriatic Disease
Methotrexate has long been used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Many unanswered questions remain regarding its use, including as a conjunctive agent, and the best methods for monitoring therapy. A collaboration of rheumatology and dermatology experts created GRAPPA (Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis) in 2007 and recently published their conclusions,1 including:
Liver toxicity varies among groups of patients and might be related to comorbid factors.
The data are insufficient to recommend the use of serial liver biopsies or serologic testing with amino-terminal pro-peptide of type III collagen.
Small amounts of alcohol might not be detrimental.
Three months i…
Author
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory board XOMA; Eli Lilly; Celgene
Equity Various trust accounts
Editorial boards JAMA Dermatology; UpToDate
Leadership positions in professional societies Association of Professors of Dermatology (President-Elect)
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory board XOMA; Eli Lilly; Celgene
Equity Various trust accounts
Editorial boards JAMA Dermatology; UpToDate
Leadership positions in professional societies Association of Professors of Dermatology (President-Elect)