Intravenous cyclophosphamide pulses in the treatment of pyoderma gangrenosum associated with rheumatoid arthritis: report of 2 cases and review of the literature

J Rheumatol. 1994 Jul;21(7):1352-6.

Abstract

Pyoderma gangrenosum is a chronic ulceronecrotic inflammatory cutaneous disorder that can be associated with diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). No definitive treatment exists for this condition; steroids have been the mainstay of therapy, and the addition of immunosuppressives has been advocated. We describe 2 patients with pyoderma gangrenosum occurring in the setting of RA who, in addition to steroids, received pulse intravenous cyclophosphamide and had a remarkably good and lasting response. This is the first report of such a therapeutic approach. The pertinent literature is discussed. We conclude that pulse cyclophosphamide is another possible therapy for pyoderma gangrenosum.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / complications*
  • Cyclophosphamide / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Middle Aged
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / complications*
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / drug therapy*
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / pathology

Substances

  • Cyclophosphamide