Colchicine is effective in controlling chronic cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis

Chronic cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis is commonly difficult to control. In an attempt to avoid potentially toxic therapy with corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressives or to allow tapering of corticosteroid therapy, I instituted oral colchicine therapy in thirteen patients. Complete control of disease occurred in nine patients, partial control (as evidenced by my ability to lower the corticosteroid dosage) was obtained in three patients, and one patient had no demonstrable effects during a 1-month period of colchicine therapy. Effect was uniformly noted within 1 week after institution of therapy. Side effects were uncommon but, when they occurred, consisted mainly of abdominal cramping and/or diarrhea. Seven patients had a relapse of their cutaneous vasculitis when colchicine was stopped, but reinstitution again led to a rapid control of the disease manifestations. Therapy has been safely continued for up to 2 1/2 years without evidence of toxicity. Thus colchicine appears to be a safe and effective therapy for chronic cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis.