Liver histology in patients receiving low dose pulse methotrexate for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

The liver histology of 52 patients treated with intermittent low dose pulse methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis was evaluated using a modification of the Roenigk grading system. Patients studied had had an average of 3.2 years of treatment or had received 1.7 g methotrexate. No patient had cirrhos...

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Published inAnnals of the rheumatic diseases Vol. 49; no. 8; pp. 591 - 593
Main Authors Willkens, R F, Leonard, P A, Clegg, D O, Tolman, K G, Ward, J R, Marks, C R, Greene, M L, Roth, G J, Jackson, C G, Cannon, G W
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published London BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and European League Against Rheumatism 01.08.1990
BMJ
BMJ Publishing Group LTD
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Summary:The liver histology of 52 patients treated with intermittent low dose pulse methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis was evaluated using a modification of the Roenigk grading system. Patients studied had had an average of 3.2 years of treatment or had received 1.7 g methotrexate. No patient had cirrhosis; 15 (29%) patients had evidence of mild fibrosis. Histological abnormalities were not predicted by liver function test changes, with the exception that hypoalbuminaemia occurred in 60% of those with grade IV (modified criteria) findings. The need for liver biopsy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with methotrexate before two years or 1500 mg of treatment has not been established. Whether serial liver biopsies will be needed beyond this time has yet to be determined.
Bibliography:istex:6812601CB9455ECD35A8DECB4AA6C68259E5AAEB
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href:annrheumdis-49-591.pdf
PMID:2396863
ISSN:0003-4967
1468-2060
DOI:10.1136/ard.49.8.591