Systemic minocycline as a therapeutic option in predominantly oral mucous membrane pemphigoid: a cautionary report

The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic benefit of minocycline in mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) predominantly involving the oral cavity. A descriptive, open clinical study with no control group, including 9 patients, was developed. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathological examination and direct and salt-split-skin indirect immunofluorescence analysis. Target antigens were sought by immunoblotting. Patients received minocycline (200mg/day) for a variable period. All patients were followed up for at least 2 years after initial diagnosis. Therapeutic response was assessed by clinical improvement in three categories: major response, minor response and no response. A major response was observed in 3 patients (33%), a minor response in 4 (44%) and 2 (22%) patients showed no improvement. Two of the 3 patients with a major response showed no immunoblot reactivity; 80% of patients with circulating autoantibodies (autoAb) against BP180 had a minor or no response. Permanent remission of signs with no relapse was only obtained in one patient. 5 patients (55%) stopped the drug because of adverse effects, such as vertigo and gastralgia. The results revealed temporary clinical benefits in MMP predominantly involving the oral cavity with minocycline, although frequently side effects led to drug withdrawal.