Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 21, 2025

The Goeckerman Regimen for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
11:39

The Goeckerman Regimen for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis

Published on: July 11, 2013

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Fatal Manifestations of Methotrexate Overdose in Case of Psoriasis Due to Dosing Error

Shubham V Nimkar1, Pallavi Yelne1, Shilpa A Gaidhane2

  • 1Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Science (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND.

Cureus
|November 16, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Methotrexate (MTX) is a common psoriasis treatment, but overdosing can cause severe toxicity. This case highlights the critical need for accurate dosing to prevent serious side effects.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pharmacology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Methotrexate (MTX) is a widely used immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory drug for psoriasis treatment.
  • Low-dose MTX has been a mainstay in psoriasis management for over 50 years.
  • Potential side effects include pancytopenia, liver dysfunction, respiratory issues, and kidney failure.

Observation:

  • This case study details a patient experiencing severe methotrexate toxicity.
  • The toxicity resulted from an accidental overdose of methotrexate prescribed for psoriasis.
  • The patient presented with pronounced symptoms indicative of MTX toxicity.

Findings:

  • Erroneous overdosing of methotrexate led to florid symptoms of toxicity.
  • The patient's condition underscores the narrow therapeutic index of methotrexate.
  • Accurate dosage is paramount in preventing MTX-related adverse events.

Implications:

  • This case emphasizes the importance of meticulous medication management in dermatology.
  • Healthcare providers must ensure precise methotrexate dosing to avoid life-threatening toxicity.
  • Patient safety protocols should be reinforced to prevent medication errors in chronic disease management.
Keywords:
critical caredosing errorfatalmethotrexate toxicitypsoriasis

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