Cyclosporine, azathioprine and local therapy for pyoderma gangrenosum

Australas J Dermatol. 1994;35(1):15-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-0960.1994.tb01793.x.

Abstract

A markedly obese 54 year old woman with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis, anaemia, dyspepsia, controlled hypothyroidism and depression presented with a seven month history of large pyoderma gangrenosum ulcers on the shins. Routine dressings for the ulcers had been ineffective. Her arthritis was being treated with azathioprine and NSAID's. Initial treatment with clobestasol propionate and disodium cromoglycate under occlusion produced only partial healing. Introduction of Cyclosporin A and continuation of topical therapy, with the addition of triamcinolone acetonide injections, led to progressive healing which was complete after seven months. There has been no relapse to date. Cyclosporine can be combined with azathioprine and local therapy for successful treatment of pyoderma gangrenosum.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / complications
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / drug therapy*
  • Azathioprine / therapeutic use*
  • Cyclosporine / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intralesional
  • Middle Aged
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / drug therapy*
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / etiology
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Triamcinolone Acetonide / therapeutic use
  • Wound Healing / drug effects

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Cyclosporine
  • Triamcinolone Acetonide
  • Azathioprine