Long-term cefuroxime axetil in subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus - A report of three cases

Background: Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is a subset of lu pus erythematosus characterized mainly by prominent photoaggravated cutaneo us manifestations. Standard therapies for SCLE include topical or systemic steroids and antimalarial drugs. Both methods show limited efficacy in clea ring cutaneous lesions and occasionally produce serious side effects. Aim: To assess the efficacy of cefuroxime axetil, an oral cephalosporin with ant ibacterial and immunosuppressive activity, in patients with SCLE. Methods: Three patients with SCLE were treated with cefuroxime axetil at a daily dos e of 500 mg for 30-60 days. Results: In all patients complete clearing of s kin lesions Was achieved and no side effects were observed. Conclusion: We suggest that long-term cefuroxime axetil administration might be an alterna tive treatment for patients with SCLE skin lesions. Copyright (C) 2000 S. K arger AG, Basel.