D-penicillamine in the treatment of eosinophilic fasciitis: case reports and review of the literature

Clin Rheumatol. 2012 Jan;31(1):183-7. doi: 10.1007/s10067-011-1866-3. Epub 2011 Oct 12.

Abstract

Eosinophilic fasciitis (EF) is a rare disease characterized by symmetrical thickness and hardening of the skin, especially localized to forearms and thorax, with eosinophilia. Corticosteroids represent the first-line therapy, even if some patients are scarcely responsive and/or may develop important side effects due to long-term treatment. Here, we describe three cases of EF, two of them refractory to previous steroid therapy, successfully treated with D-penicillamine. The present clinical observations together with the updated review of the literature suggest usefulness of D-penicillamine in EF patients, as well as its potential steroid-sparing value.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antirheumatic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Resistance / drug effects
  • Drug Substitution
  • Eosinophilia / diagnosis
  • Eosinophilia / drug therapy*
  • Fasciitis / diagnosis
  • Fasciitis / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Glucocorticoids / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Penicillamine / therapeutic use*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antirheumatic Agents
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Penicillamine