Ulcérations buccales aphtoïdes persistantes associées au tocilizumab : deux cas

We describe for the first time the occurrence of aphthous mouth ulcers induced by TCZ. The causative role of TCZ was established by positive rechallenge. These cases were similar to a recently reported case of multiple intestinal aphthous ulcers occurring during TCZ treatment. Such mucosal side effects may be explained by similar inflammatory mechanisms but appear paradoxical because TCZ inhibits a pro-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin 6. TCZ treatment can be maintained if necessary, in combination with colchicine, as reported for one of our patients.