Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
3205230 Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 2013 5 Pages PDF
Abstract

BackgroundMycophenolate mofetil (MMF) has enjoyed increasing popularity as an emerging immunosuppressant treatment for various autoimmune dermatologic conditions, including pyoderma gangrenosum (PG).ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of MMF as used in PG.MethodsA retrospective chart review was conducted for all patients with PG treated with MMF at our institution (Victoria, Australia) for the past 11 years (2001-2012).ResultsWe identified 26 patients, 14 female and 12 male. Nine patients (34.6%) had associated systemic conditions. All patients received prednisolone. MMF was used as a first-line steroid-sparing agent in 11 patients (42.3%), second-line in 14 (53.8%), and third-line in 1 (3.85%). The average duration of treatment was 12.1 months. Fourteen patients experienced side effects (53.8%), although most were mild (26.9%). One patient died after a sigmoid colon perforation (3.85%). Overall 22 patients demonstrated clinical improvement during MMF treatment (84.6%). Thirteen patients achieved complete ulcer healing (50%), 10 while taking MMF and 3 after ceasing it.LimitationsThis is a retrospective study based on a single-center cohort.ConclusionOur experience suggests that MMF is highly efficacious in PG together with prednisolone, or as part of combination therapy with other immunosuppressants.

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