Evaluation of methotrexate and cyclosporine for severe psoriasis: A retrospective analysis from tertiary hospital in Indonesia

Abstract

Background Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease manifested as chronic, recurrent thick red scaly plaques. Cyclosporine and methotrexate have been used as therapy for severe psoriasis since decades. This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcome of methotrexate and cyclosporine as treatment for severe psoriasis.   Methods A three-year retrospective analysis was undertaken to examine the medical records of hospitalized patients with severe psoriasis. This study evaluated outcomes such as psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) and length of hospital stay (LOS).   Results Twenty-six patients were included in the study. Mean PASI reduction was 42.8% (± 24.64), with greater reduction in cyclosporine group (mean 54.88±12.73%) than that in methotrexate group (mean 43.22±24.4%). Patients in cyclosporine group stayed longer (18.83±9.39 days) than patients in methotrexate group (11.65±5.91 days).   Conclusion Methotrexate and cyclosporine treatment are effective for severe psoriasis. However, the hospital stays for patients receiving cyclosporine treatment might be longer.