Disodium cromoglycate in dermatitis herpetiformis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Gastroenterology
• Immunology

Background:

• Dermatitis herpetiformis is a chronic autoimmune blistering skin condition.
• Dapsone is a common treatment, but long-term use can have side effects.
• Disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) is an anti-inflammatory agent with potential therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) as an adjunct therapy in dermatitis herpetiformis.
• To assess the impact of DSCG on dapsone requirements and intestinal mucosal histology.

Main Methods:

• Eleven patients with dermatitis herpetiformis on a normal diet and dapsone therapy were administered DSCG (1.5-1.6 g daily).
• Patients were followed for 6-11 months, with dapsone dosage and intestinal biopsies assessed.
• Intestinal biopsies were analyzed for macroscopic appearance and interepithelial lymphocyte counts.

Main Results:

• None of the eight patients completing at least 6 months of DSCG could discontinue dapsone.
• Dapsone requirements varied: decreased in two, increased in three, and remained unchanged in three patients.
• Intestinal biopsy results showed no consistent improvement; macroscopic appearance improved in two, worsened in two, and remained unchanged in four.

Conclusions:

• Disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) does not appear to be an effective steroid-sparing agent for dermatitis herpetiformis.
• DSCG did not significantly alter dapsone requirements or improve intestinal mucosal pathology in this patient cohort.
• Further research is needed to explore alternative or combination therapies for dermatitis herpetiformis.