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Dermatitis herpetiformis exacerbated by indomethacin
The British Journal of Dermatology
|April 1, 1985
Summary
Indomethacin worsened dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) rash and itching in most patients. DH patients taking dapsone or sulphamethoxypyridazine needed higher doses when given indomethacin, suggesting a role for lipoxygenase in DH pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a chronic autoimmune blistering skin disease.
- Dapsone and sulphamethoxypyridazine are common treatments for DH, targeting inflammatory pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of indomethacin, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), on DH symptoms and medication requirements.
- To explore the potential role of lipoxygenase products in the pathogenesis of DH skin lesions.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, cross-over study was conducted with thirteen adult DH patients.
- Patients received either indomethacin or placebo, with medication requirements monitored.
Main Results:
- Nine out of thirteen patients experienced exacerbated rash and pruritus (itching) with indomethacin compared to placebo.
- Increased requirements for dapsone and sulphamethoxypyridazine were observed during the indomethacin treatment period.
Conclusions:
- Indomethacin can worsen dermatitis herpetiformis symptoms and increase the need for standard DH medications.
- These findings suggest that lipoxygenase products may be involved in the development of DH skin lesions.