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Tan MG, Tolkachjov SN. Treatment of Pyoderma Gangrenosum. Dermatol Clin 2024; 42:183-192. [PMID: 38423680 DOI: 10.1016/j.det.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare neutrophilic dermatosis that results in painful cutaneous ulcers and is frequently associated with underlying hematologic disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, or other autoimmune disorders. Pathogenesis involves an imbalance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators, leading to tissue damage from neutrophils. First-line treatment options with the greatest evidence include systemic corticosteroids, cyclosporine, and tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors. Other steroid-sparing therapies such as dapsone, mycophenolate mofetil, intravenous immunoglobulin, and targeted biologic or small molecule inhibitors also have evidence supporting their use. Wound care and management of underlying associated disorders are critical parts of the treatment regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus G Tan
- Division of Dermatology, University of Ottawa, 737 Parkdale Avenue, 4th Floor Dermatology, Ottawa, ON K1Y1J8, Canada.
| | - Stanislav N Tolkachjov
- Mohs Micrographic & Reconstructive Surgery, Epiphany Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, Baylor University Medical Center, University of Texas at Southwestern, Texas A&M University School of Medicine, 1640 FM 544, Suite 100, Lewisville, TX 75056, USA
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2
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Dai A, Kim SJ. Systemic calcineurin inhibitors tacrolimus and voclosporin: A review of off-label dermatologic uses. J Am Acad Dermatol 2024; 90:358-367. [PMID: 37307993 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2023.05.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic calcineurin inhibitors, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, and voclosporin, have been utilized in various dermatologic conditions. Although there have been numerous off-label dermatologic indications with published guidelines for cyclosporine, there is no established strong consensus for tacrolimus and voclosporin. OBJECTIVE To conduct a review of off-label use of systemic tacrolimus and voclosporin in various dermatoses to better inform treatment methods. METHODS A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar. Relevant clinical trials, observational studies, case series, and reports regarding off-label dermatologic uses of systemic tacrolimus and voclosporin were included. RESULTS Tacrolimus shows promise for numerous dermatologic conditions, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis/eczema, pyoderma gangrenosum, chronic urticaria, and Behcet's disease. Randomized controlled trial data are only available for voclosporin in psoriasis, which showed efficacy but did not meet noninferiority to cyclosporine. LIMITATIONS Data were limited and extracted from published papers. Studies differed in methodology, and nonstandardized outcomes limited the conclusions drawn. CONCLUSIONS In comparison to cyclosporine, tacrolimus can be considered for treatment-refractory disease or in patients with cardiovascular risk factors or inflammatory bowel disease. Voclosporin has only been utilized in psoriasis currently, and clinical trials in psoriasis show voclosporin's efficacy. Voclosporin can be considered for patients with lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Dai
- Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Soo Jung Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.
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Morgenstjerne-Schwenck LET, Knudsen JT, Prasad SC. Efficacy and safety of skin grafting in treatment of vasculitic ulcer and pyoderma gangrenosum-A systematic review. Wound Repair Regen 2020; 29:240-253. [PMID: 33377584 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Chronic painful ulcers caused by pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) and cutaneous vasculitis remain to be a therapeutic challenge. Skin grafts have been used with success in selected cases but are generally avoided due to the fear of pathergy. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of skin grafting in the treatment of primary vasculitic ulcer (PVU) and PG. MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Clinicaltrial.gov, and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) were searched from inception to March 2020. A search for grey literature was conducted in May 2020. We included studies assessing the efficacy and safety of skin grafting in the treatment of PG and PVU. Studies were only included if skin grafting was performed after establishment of PG or PVU diagnosis. A total of 721 articles was identified through the database search of which 92 were included in this study. Ten articles were identified by handsearching the reference list of included studies. Finally, 102 articles describing 212 wounds in 153 patients were included. Complete healing was found in 75.5% of the wounds. The average time to complete was 10.8 weeks (95% CI 6.1-15.6). The mean donor site healing time was 1.9 weeks (95% CI 0.52-3.20). Pathergy was reported in 8 (5.2%) patients. One patient had severe infection related to skin grafting. A statistically significant difference in the number of patients receiving preoperative (P = .0079) and postoperative (P = .002) immunosuppressive therapy was found between the groups with complete healing/reduction and no improvement/aggravation. This systematic review finds the current evidence on efficacy and safety of skin grafting in treatment of PG and PVU to be promising but limited to the size and lack of studies superior to case reports and case series. Future placebo-controlled trials are required to draw a stronger conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane T Knudsen
- Department of Dermatovenerology and Allergy, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Sumangali C Prasad
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Dermatovenerology and Allergy, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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Satake M, Sakuraba H, Hiraga H, Tarakita N, Akemoto Y, Ota S, Hasui K, Nishiya D, Hayamizu S, Kikuchi H, Sawaya M, Chinda D, Mikami T, Shimoyama T, Fukuda S. Successful treatment with tacrolimus of refractory pyoderma gangrenosum with pouchitis after restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis. Immunol Med 2018; 41:142-146. [PMID: 30618342 DOI: 10.1080/25785826.2018.1531194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe herein a case of severe relapsed pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) concomitantly with severe pouchitis treated by tacrolimus. A 25-year-old woman had undergone proctocolectomy with construction of ileo-anal pouch surgery for refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). She first developed PG with refractory pouchitis, and infliximab (IFX) was administered to induce remission due to resistance to glucocorticoid therapy. After achieving remission, IFX was stopped. Five years later, severe skin ulcers concomitantly with severe pouchitis recurred and treatment with 30 mg oral prednisolone (PSL) combined with topical tacrolimus showed partial improvement. When PSL was tapered to 15 mg, the skin ulcers and diarrhea aggravated. Endoscopy revealed multiple ulcers in the ileal pouch. Treatment with oral tacrolimus was initiated for severe pouchitis and refractory PG. Forty days later, all skin ulcers became scars and multiple ulcers in the ileal pouch were also improved. Our case suggests that oral tacrolimus treatment could be a valuable treatment option for UC patients with refractory PG and pouchitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miwa Satake
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Hirotake Sakuraba
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan.,b Department of Community Medicine , Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Hiroto Hiraga
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan.,c Department of Community Healthcare Development in Odate and North Akita , Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Natsumi Tarakita
- d Department of Neuropsychiatry , Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Yui Akemoto
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Shinji Ota
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Keisuke Hasui
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Daisuke Nishiya
- e Department of Gastroenterology , Aomori Rosai Hospital , Hachinohe , Japan
| | - Shiro Hayamizu
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Hidezumi Kikuchi
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Manabu Sawaya
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Daisuke Chinda
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Tatsuya Mikami
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan.,f Division of endoscopy , Hirosaki University Hospital , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Tadashi Shimoyama
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
| | - Shinsaku Fukuda
- a Department of Gastroenterology and Hematology , Hirosaki University Graduate school of medicine , Hirosaki , Japan.,b Department of Community Medicine , Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine , Hirosaki , Japan
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Gupta AS, Ortega-Loayza AG. Ocular pyoderma gangrenosum: A systematic review. J Am Acad Dermatol 2016; 76:512-518. [PMID: 27836332 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2016.08.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Revised: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare, ulcerative cutaneous disorder. Ophthalmic involvement in PG is atypical, but can have devastating consequences. OBJECTIVE We sought to characterize ocular PG to allow for earlier diagnosis and therapy. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review summarizing this clinical variant. METHODS A systematic review was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science. Data were extracted and studies were qualitatively assessed and analyzed. RESULTS We identified all 34 cases of PG involving the eye and periorbital area, and categorized them into 4 different subtypes. Common presenting signs include ulceration, peripheral ulcerative keratitis, and decreased visual acuity. Although it is often difficult to biopsy ocular PG, histologic features are nonspecific. Combined therapy using corticosteroids and further surgical reconstruction as needed is the mainstay of treatment. Cases of the eye/orbit in particular should be treated aggressively, as these are more likely to relapse compared with cases of the periorbital area. LIMITATIONS Use of case reports, paucity of ocular PG cases, and heterogeneity of studies are limitations. CONCLUSION PG should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ulceration of ocular/periocular tissues. An aggressive, early, multimodal treatment strategy should be used to prevent relapse, especially in cases of the eye/orbit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela S Gupta
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Alex G Ortega-Loayza
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, Oregon.
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Wollina U, Tchernev G. Pyoderma gangrenosum: pathogenetic oriented treatment approaches. Wien Med Wochenschr 2014; 164:263-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s10354-014-0285-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Agarwal A, Andrews JM. Systematic review: IBD-associated pyoderma gangrenosum in the biologic era, the response to therapy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2013; 38:563-72. [PMID: 23914999 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2012] [Revised: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is uncommon and therapeutically challenging. Its treatment remains poorly characterised due to limited individual centre or practitioner experience. No large series are reported since 2003, yet IBD treatment has changed substantially. AIM To provide an up-to-date review of the published treatment efficacy of currently available therapies for IBD-related PG in the biologic era. METHODS Systematic review of cases published post-2003 since the broad availability of anti-tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) therapy. Cases which did not have coexistent IBD, were non-English language, of paediatric age or without data on response to therapy were excluded. RESULTS Sixty cases were identified; 55% female, 50% UC, 45% CD, 5% IBD-U. At PG diagnosis, 58% had active and only 15% inactive IBD, with 27% with IBD activity unspecified. Predominant sites were lower limb (48%) and peristomally (25%); 42% had multiple lesions. In 12%, trauma preceded PG. In 42%, new PG appeared whilst on IBD-specific therapy, whilst 28% were on no therapy and in 30%, IBD therapy was unspecified. Of patients on no therapy at PG onset (n = 17), 16 healed; seven with first- and eight with second-line therapy. In total, 34/60 patients received infliximab, four received adalimumab, two had both; with 33 (92%) responding to one or the other. There was no correlation of PG duration or size with healing times. CONCLUSIONS Pyoderma gangrenosum appears predominantly during active IBD and is seen equally in CD and UC. New PG may be a manifestation of recrudescent IBD or it follow trauma. Anti-TNFα therapy as a first-line agent for PG should be considered, as it appears to be highly effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Agarwal
- IBD Services & Education, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide at Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Abstract
Parastomal pyoderma gangrenosum (PPG) is an unusual neutrophilic dermatosis characterized by painful, necrotic ulcerations occurring in the area surrounding an abdominal stoma. It typically affects young to middle-aged adults, with a slight female predominance. The underlying etiology for PPG remains enigmatic but aberrant immune response to injury may play a pivotal role. The reported risk factors for the development of PPG include the presence of extra-intestinal manifestations, autoimmune disorders and obesity, along with local factors, such as the presence of parastomal hernia or pressure ulcer. PPG can develop at any time after the stoma construction. The histopathological features of PPG are not pathognomonic and its diagnosis is mainly based on clinical features. The management of PPG often requires a multidisciplinary approach, with a combination of local wound care and systemic medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Rui Wu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, the Cleveland Clinic Foundation,Cleveland, Ohio, USA and Department of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Abstract
Neutrophilic dermatoses, including Sweet's syndrome, pyoderma gangrenosum, and rheumatoid neutrophilic dermatitis, are inflammatory conditions of the skin often associated with underlying systemic disease. These are characterized by the accumulation of neutrophils in the skin. The associated conditions, potential for systemic neutrophilic infiltration, and therapeutic management of these disorders can be similar. Sweet's syndrome can often be effectively treated with a brief course of systemic corticosteroids. Pyoderma gangrenosum, however, can be recurrent, and early initiation of a steroid-sparing agent is prudent. Second-line treatment for both of these conditions includes medications affecting neutrophil function, in addition to immunosuppressant medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney R Schadt
- Division of Dermatology, University of Louisville, 310 East Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
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10
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Dabade TS, Davis MDP. Diagnosis and treatment of the neutrophilic dermatoses (pyoderma gangrenosum, Sweet's syndrome). Dermatol Ther 2011; 24:273-84. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-8019.2011.01403.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Leg ulcers in the antiphospholipid syndrome may be considered as a form of pyoderma gangrenosum and they respond favorably to treatment with immunosuppression and anticoagulation. Rheumatol Int 2010; 30:1253-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s00296-010-1418-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2009] [Accepted: 03/10/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Baumgart DC, Macdonald JK, Feagan B. Tacrolimus (FK506) for induction of remission in refractory ulcerative colitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2008:CD007216. [PMID: 18646177 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are a limited number of treatment options for patients with refractory ulcerative colitis. Animal models of inflammatory bowel disease and uncontrolled studies in humans suggest that tacrolimus may be effective treatment for ulcerative colitis. OBJECTIVES This review aims to evaluate the efficacy of tacrolimus for induction of remission in patients with corticosteroid refractory ulcerative colitis. SEARCH STRATEGY MEDLINE (PubMed), The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the IBD/FBD review group specialized register and the ISI-Research Institute were searched (January 1997 to November 2007) to identify relevant studies all randomized trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Each author independently reviewed potentially relevant studies to determine eligibility based on the pre-specified criteria. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS A data extraction form was developed and used to extract data from included studies. Two authors independently extracted data. Data were analyzed using Review Manager (RevMan 4.2.9). The primary outcomes were induction of remission and clinical improvement, as defined by the studies and expressed as a percentage of the patients randomized (intention to treat analysis). MAIN RESULTS One randomized controlled trial comparing high target serum concentration and low target serum concentration tacrolimus versus placebo was identified and included in the review. Clinical remission was observed in 19% (4/21) of patients in the high target serum concentration group, in 9% (2/22) in the low target serum concentration group and in 5% (1/20) in the placebo group (OR 2.27; 95% CI 0.35 to 14.75). A statistically significant benefit for clinical improvement at two weeks was observed. Clinical improvement was observed in 62% (13/21) of patients in the high target serum concentration group, in 36% (8/22) in the low target serum concentration group and in 10% (2/20) in the placebo group (OR 8.66; 95% CI 1.79 to 42.00; RD 0.39; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.59; NNT = 3). Patients in the high serum target concentration group were significantly more likely than placebo patients to experience adverse events related to treatment (P = 0.043). Finger tremor (n = 6) was the most common adverse event in the tacrolimus group. Other adverse events included: gastroenteritis, sepsis, sleepiness, hot flush, headache, queasiness and stomach discomfort. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Tacrolimus may be effective for short-term clinical improvement in patients with refractory ulcerative colitis. However, these results should be interpreted with caution due to the small number of patients enrolled in the trial and other study limitations. Insufficient treatment and follow-up intervals prevent any conclusions with regard to long term safety and efficacy. The use of tacrolimus in the clinical setting requires careful consideration of risks versus benefits as well as close monitoring for adverse events. More data from well designed and controlled studies are needed to determine the long-term efficacy and safety of tacrolimus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Baumgart
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology , Charité Medical Center, Virchow Hospital , Medical School of the Humboldt-University, Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, Germany, 13353.
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Santiago Sánchez-Mateos J, Martín Sáez E, Moreno Izquierdo R, González García C, Jaén Olasolo P. Fiebre, hematoquecia y úlceras cutáneas en un adulto joven. Rev Clin Esp 2008; 208:102-4. [DOI: 10.1157/13115209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Chow DKL, Leong RWL. The use of tacrolimus in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2007; 6:479-85. [PMID: 17877436 DOI: 10.1517/14740338.6.5.479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Tacrolimus is a calcineurin inhibitor that suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokine production and T-cell activation. These immunosuppressant effects have been used to treat inflammatory bowel disease, especially fistulising Crohn's disease and refractory ulcerative colitis. The more predictable oral bioavailability and better side-effect profile makes tacrolimus a more favourable choice as compared with ciclosporin. Dose-dependent side effects, such as nephrotoxicity, are reported but are mostly reversible with dose reduction or cessation of therapy. Topical tacrolimus has also been used to treat pyoderma gangrenosum, an extra-intestinal manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease. Tacrolimus is well-tolerated and should be considered as an alternative agent in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, especially those intolerant or refractory to the more conventional immunomodulators.
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Abstract
Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare noninfectious neutrophilic dermatosis. Clinically it starts with sterile pustules that rapidly progress and turn into painful ulcers of variable depth and size with undermined violaceous borders. The legs are most commonly affected but other parts of the skin and mucous membranes may also be involved. Course can be mild or malignant, chronic or relapsing with remarkable morbidity. In many cases PG is associated with an underlying disease, most commonly inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatic or haematological disease and malignancy. Diagnosis of PG is based on history of an underlying disease, typical clinical presentation, histopathology, and exclusion of other diseases that would lead to a similar appearance. The peak of incidence occurs between the ages of 20 to 50 years with women being more often affected than men. Aetiology has not been clearly determined yet. The treatment of PG is a challenge. Randomized, double-blinded prospective multicenter trials for PG are not available. The best documented treatments are systemic corticosteroids and ciclosporin A. Combinations of steroids with cytotoxic drugs are used in resistant cases. The combination of steroids with sulfa drugs or immunosuppressants has been used as steroid-sparing modalities. Anti-tumor necrosis alpha therapy in Crohn's disease showed a rapid response of PG. Skin transplants and the application of bioengineered skin is useful in selected cases as a complement to the immunosuppressive treatment. Topical therapy with modern wound dressings is useful to minimize pain and the risk of secondary infections. Despite recent advances in therapy, the prognosis of PG remains unpredictable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Wollina
- Department of Dermatology & Allergology, Academic Teaching Hospital Dresden-Friedrichstadt, Friedrichstrasse Dresden, Germany.
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Gonzalez-Lama Y, Gisbert JP, Mate J. The role of tacrolimus in inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review. Dig Dis Sci 2006; 51:1833-40. [PMID: 16964541 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-006-9209-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2005] [Accepted: 12/30/2005] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic management of inflammatory bowel disease remains beyond the limits of conventional therapy in many cases. Novel therapies used include tacrolimus, a new powerful immunosuppressive drug, employed in some case reports and a few studies that have tried to evaluate its effectiveness in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis with promising results, but its role in the management of inflammatory bowel disease remains controversial. We performed a systematic review that analyzed a total of 23 reported experiences in 286 patients with inflammatory bowel disease treated with tacrolimus. Although most of the published studies are uncontrolled, short, and heterogeneous, promising results have been obtained in fistulizing disease, unresponsive cases of both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, and even extraintestinal manifestations. The overall outcome was good enough to consider tacrolimus as a rationale therapeutic option. However, comparative studies with standard therapeutic options like infliximab are needed to assess the correct role that tacrolimus may play in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yago Gonzalez-Lama
- Digestive Department, La Princesa University Hospital, Diego de Leon 62, Madrid 28006, Spain.
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Braun F, Behrend M. Basic immunosuppressive drugs outside solid organ transplantation. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2006; 15:267-91. [PMID: 16503764 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.15.3.267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Immunosuppressive drugs are the backbone of solid organ transplantation. The introduction of new immunosuppressive drugs led to improved patient and organ survival rates. Nowadays, acute rejection can be reduced to a minimum. Individualization and avoidance of drug-related adverse effects became a new goal to achieve. The potency of immunosuppressive drugs makes them attractive for use in various autoimmune diseases; therefore, the experience on immunosuppressive drugs outside the field of organ transplantation is analysed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Braun
- General and Transplantation Surgery, University of Kiel, Germany
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