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D-penicillamine-induced polymyositis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Abstract:
Among 329 patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with D-penicillamine (DP), we found 4 cases of polymyositis. This incidence was significantly higher than the expected coincidence of rheumatoid arthritis and polymyositis/dermatomyositis or than the presumed frequency of this complication among patients treated with DP. In the present report, we summarize and discuss the clinical findings in DP-induced polymyositis/dermatomyositis in our patients and others described in the literature.
Insights
D-penicillamine (DP) treatment for rheumatoid arthritis was linked to a higher-than-expected incidence of polymyositis. This study highlights a potential drug-induced complication in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- D-penicillamine (DP) is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat RA.
- Polymyositis/dermatomyositis are inflammatory myopathies.
Observation:
- Four cases of polymyositis were identified in 329 RA patients treated with DP.
- The observed incidence of polymyositis was significantly higher than expected in this cohort.
- This suggests a potential link between DP treatment and polymyositis development.
Findings:
- Clinical findings of DP-induced polymyositis/dermatomyositis were summarized.
- The study reviewed cases from the authors' institution and existing literature.
- DP-induced polymyositis represents a notable complication in RA management.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be vigilant for polymyositis in RA patients receiving DP.
- Early recognition and management of drug-induced myopathy are crucial.
- Further research may elucidate the mechanisms of DP-induced myotoxicity.