METHOTREXATE IN SARCOIDOSIS: HEMATOLOGIC AND HEPATIC TOXICITY ENCOUNTERED IN A LARGE COHORT OVER A SIX YEAR PERIOD

Robert P. Baughman*, Johanna P. Cremers, Martina Harmon, Elyse E. Lower, Marjolein Drent

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Background: Methotrexate (MTX) is a second line agent for treatment of sarcoidosis. Its long term safety and efficacy in sarcoidosis remains unclear. Methods: This was a retrospective review of patients seen at the University of Cincinnati Sarcoidosis Clinic over a six year period. For each visit, complete blood count, liver function testing, and dosing and outcome of MTX was noted. For efficacy, we compared the outcome of therapy of a matching subgroup of patients treated with either MTX or infliximab for one year and results scored as improved, stable, or worse based on response of the target organ. Results: Over six years, 1606 sarcoidosis patients were seen with a total of 13,576 clinical visits. During the study period, 607 patients (38% of total) were receiving MTX and had available blood work. Moderate elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (>3 times upper limit normal) was seen in nine (1.6%) patients. White blood count of

Original languageEnglish
Article number2020001
Number of pages10
JournalSarcoidosis Vasculitis and Diffuse Lung Diseases
Volume37
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020

Keywords

  • sarcoidosis
  • methtorexate
  • liver function tests
  • leukopenia
  • infliximab
  • LOW-DOSE METHOTREXATE
  • RHEUMATOID-ARTHRITIS
  • DOUBLE-BLIND
  • PULMONARY SARCOIDOSIS
  • LIVER-DAMAGE
  • RISK-FACTORS
  • THERAPY
  • EFFICACY
  • RECOMMENDATIONS
  • LEFLUNOMIDE

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