Mycophenolate mofetil therapy in adult patients with recalcitrant atopic dermatitis

Abstract

Background: Patients with severe atopic dermatitis (AD) may require potent immunosuppressive therapy to control their disease. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) has been suggested as a safe and effective drug in these cases. Objectives: To investigate effectiveness and tolerability of oral MMF in adult patients with severe recalcitrant AD. Methods: During the years 2010–2017 oral MMF 2–3 g/day was administered to adult patients with severe recalcitrant AD who failed other major systemic drugs, or where other drugs, including cyclosporine (CSA), methotrexate, and azathioprine, were contraindicated. Results: Of 9 consecutive adult patients, 4 (44%) responded completely, 2 (22%) had partial response, and 3 (33%) did not respond at all. The MMF therapy was continued for 5–36 months (average 21 months) without major side effects. Conclusions: Oral MMF may be an effective drug in AD. Due to its good safety profile, it may be recommended as a first-line systemic therapy, or successive to CSA in the long term.

Keywords

• atopic dermatitis
• recalcitrant
• mycophenolate mofetil