Brief Papers
Usefulness of methotrexate in relapsing idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis
F. Vianello1, L. Romano Gargarella2, F. Cinetto3, R. Scarpa4, J. Ceccato5, R. Marcolongo6
- Haematology and Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, Italy. fabrizio.vianello@unipd.it
- Haematology Unit, Ospedale dell’Angelo, Mestre-Venezia, Italy.
- Internal Medicine and Allergology and Clinical Immunology Units, Treviso Ca' Foncello Hospital, Treviso, Italy.
- Internal Medicine and Allergology and Clinical Immunology Units, Treviso Ca' Foncello Hospital, Treviso, Italy.
- Haematology and Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, Italy.
- Cardiology Unit, Cardioimmunology Branch, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Italy.
CER16410
Brief Papers
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PMID: 36912332 [PubMed]
Received: 29/11/2022
Accepted : 11/01/2023
In Press: 09/03/2023
Abstract
OBJECTIVES:
Glucocorticoids are the mainstay for treatment of retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF), a disease characterised by a periaortic proliferation of fibroinflammatory tissue frequently causing urinary obstruction. The therapeutic approach to patients unsuitable for steroid therapy and to relapsing cases is still undefined.
METHODS:
In this retrospective single-centre study we evaluated 15 patients with RPF who received second-line therapy with methotrexate (MTX) between January 2011 to December 2019.
RESULTS:
Fourteen out of 15 patients (93%) showed response to MTX. Two patients experienced relapse: one patient when on MTX therapy (28 months), the other, 58 months after MTX was interrupted. Liver toxicity grade 2 was documented in 2 patients and resolved with temporary dosage reduction. One patient stopped MTX autonomously because of nausea. No severe infections were recorded.
CONCLUSIONS:
In selected patients with RPF who are intolerant or refractory to steroid single therapy, MTX may be considered as useful and safe second-line treatment.
