Successful therapy of refractory pyoderma gangrenosum and periorbital phlegmona with tacrolimus (FK506) in ulcerative colitis.
We describe two male patients with ulcerative colitis and refractory pyoderma gangrenosum including periorbital phlegmona in one case. Both patients were successfully managed with low dose oral tacrolimus (0.1 mg/kg bodyweight per day). Serum trough levels were closely monitored and maintained between 4 and 6 ng/mL. A rapid response was noted in both cases. Complete non-scarring skin restitution without side effects was accomplished in both cases. Low dose oral tacrolimus provides a valuable alternative treatment option for IBD patients with refractory pyoderma gangrenosum.
Department of Medicine, Charité Medical Center-Virchow Hospital, Medical School of the Humboldt-University of Berlin, D-13344 Berlin, Germany.
Daniel C
DC
Baumgart
Bertram
B
Wiedenmann
Axel U
AU
Dignass
D000328:Adult; D002481:Cellulitis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D003093:Colitis, Ulcerative / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D009916:Orbital Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D017511:Pyoderma Gangrenosum / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D016559:Tacrolimus / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D016559:Tacrolimus