Successful therapy of refractory pyoderma gangrenosum and periorbital phlegmona with tacrolimus (FK506) in ulcerative colitis

Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2004 Jul;10(4):421-4. doi: 10.1097/00054725-200407000-00014.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cellulitis / drug therapy*
  • Cellulitis / etiology
  • Colitis, Ulcerative / complications*
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / pharmacology
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Orbital Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Orbital Diseases / etiology
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / drug therapy*
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / etiology
  • Tacrolimus / pharmacology
  • Tacrolimus / therapeutic use*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Tacrolimus