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Methotrexate associated Peyronie's disease in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
M J Phelan1, P L Riley, M P Lynch
1Department of Rheumatology, Whiston Hospital, Liverpool.
Abstract:
We describe two patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with methotrexate (MTX) who developed Peyronie's disease during the course of their treatment. In one of the patients the penile fibrosis resolved on stopping the drug. The other patient's penile fibrosis partially resolved on stopping the drug. We suggest that Peyronie's disease can be a side-effect of MTX in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Insights
Methotrexate (MTX) treatment for rheumatoid arthritis may cause Peyronie's disease. In two patients, penile fibrosis improved after discontinuing MTX, suggesting a potential side effect.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Urology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Methotrexate (MTX) is a common disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used for RA.
- Peyronie's disease is characterized by penile fibrosis.
Observation:
- Two patients with rheumatoid arthritis developed Peyronie's disease while on MTX therapy.
- Penile fibrosis was observed in both patients during MTX treatment.
Findings:
- One patient experienced complete resolution of penile fibrosis after stopping MTX.
- The second patient showed partial resolution of penile fibrosis upon MTX cessation.
- These cases suggest a possible link between MTX and Peyronie's disease development.
Implications:
- Peyronie's disease may be an underrecognized side effect of MTX in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- Clinicians should consider MTX as a potential causative agent in RA patients presenting with Peyronie's disease.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the association and elucidate the mechanism.