THE USE OF AZATHIOPRINE IN SEVERE ADULT ATOPIC ECZEMA

Aim To evaluate the use of azathioprine in the treatment of severe adu lt atopic eczema and review the relevant literature. Background Effect ive treatment of severe adult atopic eczema may necessitate the use of agents such as systemic steroids, PUVA or cyclosporin, which are asso ciated with significant morbidity. Azathioprine is an effective altern ative which can induce disease remission and may be less toxic. Method s Ten patients treated with azathioprine 0.7-2.5 mg/kg per day for a m inimum period of 12 months were evaluated in a retrospective follow-up study. Results Clearance or marked improvement was noted in eight pat ients; three of these later became refractory to the drug. Side-effect s were few and were well-tolerated. One patient was found to have lymp homa 8 months after stopping treatment. Conclusion Azathioprine is an effective and cheaper alternative to cyclosporin in the treatment of s evere adult atopic eczema. Its long-term toxicity remains unclear. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.