Abstract
Purpose: :
To determine the efficacy and safety of methotrexate in the treatment of chronic noninfectious scleritis.
Methods: :
We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients treated for scleritis between January 2000 and July 2005 at the Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Patients who were treated with methotrexate therapy were included in the study in order to assess the ability of methotrexate to control inflammation and reduce steroid usage.
Results: :
The 18 patients included in the study consisted of 15 female and 3 male, with a mean age of 46 years. The control of inflammation was achieved in 11 patients (61%), with 7 patients quiescent for more then a year. The sparing of steroids was achieved in 14 patients (78%), with 6 patients completely discontinuing steroid use. Visual acuity was maintained or improved in 86% of patients. Side effects leading to the discontinuation of methotrexate occurred in one patient (6%). There were no serious adverse reactions nor long–term morbidity or mortality caused by methotrexate.
Conclusions: :
Methotrexate is an effective and well tolerated therapy which can reduce inflammation and decrease steroid usage in the treatment of chronic, noninfectious scleritis.
Keywords: sclera • autoimmune disease • inflammation