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Liver biopsies from psoriatics treated with methotrexate
Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore
|April 1, 1986
Summary
Methotrexate (MTX) liver effects were studied in psoriasis patients. Histological changes were observed, but no clear link to MTX dosage or duration was found.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Methotrexate (MTX) is used for moderate to severe psoriasis.
- Liver toxicity is a potential concern with long-term MTX use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the histological effects of Methotrexate on liver biopsies in patients with psoriasis.
- To determine if MTX dosage or duration correlates with liver histological changes.
Main Methods:
- Light microscopic examination of 20 liver biopsies from 18 patients with psoriasis treated with MTX.
- Patients had a mean MTX dosage of 1808 gm and duration of 88 months.
- Exclusion criteria included HBsAg positivity, diabetes, and significant alcohol intake.
Main Results:
- A variety of histological changes were observed in the liver biopsies of MTX-treated patients.
- No definite relationship was found between the severity of histological changes and MTX dosage or duration.
- Two patients showed progression of histological changes upon repeat biopsy.
Conclusions:
- Methotrexate therapy for psoriasis can lead to various liver histological changes.
- The study did not establish a clear correlation between MTX exposure levels and the observed liver pathology.
- Further research may be needed to understand the long-term hepatic impact of MTX.