EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF METHOTREXATE IN LICHEN PLANNUS

ABSTRACT
Background: Lichen planus is a common inflammatory disease that can involve the skin, nails, mucous membrane,
and hair follicles. There is a long list of topical and systemic therapies for its treatment. Methotrexarte can be a very
good substitute for systemic corticosteroids, especially in old ages and patients with systemic diseases.
Patients And Method: This pilot study was carried out in Out Patients Department of Dermatology Unit Hayatabad
Medical Complex from June 2011 to May 2012. Patients of Lichen Plannus (diagnosed clinically) were selected by
non-probability purposive sampling method after obtaining an informed written consent.
Results: A total of 37 patients were enrolled in the study. Out of these, 34 patients completed the study. There was
exclusion of six patients from the study due to adverse events. There were 12 (35.3%) males and 22 (64.7%) females.
Female to male ratio was 1.8:1.The age of patients ranged from 17 to 60 with a mean of 34.26(±10.77) years. The drug
was found safe and well tolerated as only six patients showed side effects. Side effects were observed in 6 patients,5
female and one male. Excellent response was seen in 20 patients ( M 7, F13),moderate in 9 patients (M4, F5) and mild
response in 5 patients (M1,F4).
Conclusion: Methotrexate is safe and efficient drug for treating lichen plannus. Larger studies with follow up is required
to see the effectiveness of Methotrexate in preventing relapse after initial excellent response