Scleredema diabeticorum partially treated with low-dose methotrexate: A report of five cases


DOĞRAMACI A. Ç., Inan M. U., Atik E., Gökçe C.

Balkan Medical Journal, vol.29, no.2, pp.218-221, 2012 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus, TRDizin)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 29 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2012
  • Doi Number: 10.5152/balkanmedj.2011.027
  • Journal Name: Balkan Medical Journal
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Page Numbers: pp.218-221
  • Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, Low-dose methotrexate, Scleredema
  • Hatay Mustafa Kemal University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Scleredema is a rare connective tissue disorder that belongs to a group of scleroderma-like disorders. Although no known curative therapy exists, various specific treatments have been proposed in the literature. In this report, we describe five cases of scleredema partially treated with low-dose methotrexate therapy. All patients have diabetes mellitus type II. All patients were started on methotrexate 15 mg subcutaneously once weekly for 3 months. Biopsy specimens were taken from all patients and were examinated histologically before the treatment and after 3 months of treatment. All cases partially responded to low-dose methotrexate therapy. We believe that methotrexate therapy may be an alternative therapeutic options in scleredema in view of its efficacy. © Trakya University Faculty of Medicine.