[Thalidomide in the treatment of chronic lupus erythematosus]

The effect of thalidomide was investigated in 12 patients with chronic lupus erythematosus resistant to classical treatment (antimalarial drugs, topical steroids). 10 patients were improved and 2 were not sensitive to the treatment. The doses were 100 mg/day for a minimum period of 2 months. With the exception of 1 case, the treatment was well tolerated. The indications of thalidomide in dermatology and the mechanism of action of the drug are briefly discussed.