Azathioprine in dermatology.
Azathioprine is a synthetic purine analog derived from 6-mercaptopurine. It is a purine antagonist and its active metabolites act by disrupting the function of endogenous purines. It has a cytotoxic and immunosuppressive mechanism of action. It is used in dermatology for treatment of immunobullous diseases, generalized eczematous disorders and photodermatoses. There is an enzyme in the metabolism of azathioprine called thiopurine s-methyltransferase (TPMT). It is very important to measure the TPMT activity before initiating therapy so that proper dosing of azathioprine can be achieved.
Bardek
Ivana
I
University Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Zagreb University Hospital Center and School of Medicine, Salata 4, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia. ivanabardek@yahoo.com
Milavec-Puretić
Visnja
V
Lipozencić
Jasna
J
D001379:Azathioprine / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*
D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D001379:Azathioprine