Dapsone as a Current Option for the Treatment of Autoimmune Bullous Diseases with Autoimmunity to Non-Enzymes: A Retrospective Study from a Single Central European Referral Center

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Dapsone (DP) is employed in the management of various skin conditions, including autoimmune bullous diseases to non-enzymes (n-eAIBDs). This study aimed to assess the advantages and safety profile of DP treatment in n-eAIBDs patients. The evaluation focused on clinical remission, reduction in glucocorticosteroid (GCS) usage, and adverse incidents during a 12-month observation in a dermatology department at a Central European university. Materials and Methods: Our retrospective study included forty-one patients who met the inclusion criteria, comprising nineteen with pemphigus vulgaris, nine with pemphigus foliaceus, four with bullous pemphigoid, and nine with mucous membrane pemphigoid, including one patient with Brunsting–Perry pemphigoid. Patients received 25–50 mg/day of DP along with oral GCSs for a year, with a subsequent dose reduction where feasible. Results: The mean decreases in prednisone-equivalent dosages across all groups after 2, 6, and 12 months of DP treatment were 45.66%, 65.77%, and 63.03%, respectively. Throughout the 12-month observation period, 21.62% of patients experienced a relapse, while the remaining patients attained either complete or partial remission with minimal therapy. Adverse incidents were observed in 29.27% of patients; these were mild or moderate, and no severe negative effects were observed. Conclusions: DP is an effective and affordable choice to support the treatment of n-eAIBDs, but it may not be sufficient for long-term management in certain patients with severe n-eAIBDs.

Keywords

• autoimmune bullous diseases
• dapsone
• glucocorticosteroids