Use of methotrexate in sarcoid-associated optic neuropathy.
Publication/Presentation Date
3-1-2003
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the possible beneficial effects of methotrexate (MTX) therapy for patients with sarcoid-associated optic neuropathy (SAON).
DESIGN: Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series.
PARTICIPANTS: Three patients diagnosed with SAON who received MTX. Two patients had tissue biopsies consistent with sarcoidosis, and 1 patient had clinically diagnosed sarcoidosis based on laboratory and radiographic studies. All 3 patients developed side effects with corticosteroid treatment of their optic neuropathy.
INTERVENTION: Patients were treated with weekly doses of oral MTX and monitored with neuro-ophthalmic, medical, and laboratory examinations.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Visual acuity, automated perimetry, and reduction of oral prednisone therapy.
RESULTS: After initiation of MTX, all 3 patients showed an improvement or stabilization of visual acuity. All patients had a decrease in their corticosteroid requirements, and all had improved or stabilized visual field deficits. One of the 3 patients developed leukopenia that necessitated a reduction of the methotrexate dose.
CONCLUSION: Methotrexate may be effective for SAON as an adjunct to corticosteroid therapy or as an alternative for corticosteroid-intolerant patients. Oral MTX reduced the corticosteroid requirements of 3 patients with SAON, and all 3 demonstrated stable or improved visual function.
Volume
110
Issue
3
First Page
559
Last Page
563
ISSN
0161-6420
Published In/Presented At
Maust, H. A., Foroozan, R., Sergott, R. C., Niazi, S., Weibel, S., & Savino, P. J. (2003). Use of methotrexate in sarcoid-associated optic neuropathy. Ophthalmology, 110(3), 559–563. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0161-6420(02)01889-4
Disciplines
Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
PubMedID
12623821
Department(s)
Administration and Leadership
Document Type
Article