Low‐dose naltrexone: a novel treatment for Hailey–Hailey disease. (23rd February 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Campbell, V.; McGrath, C.; Corry, A.
• Is Part Of: British journal of dermatology. Volume 178:Number 5(2018)
• Page Start: 1196
• Page End: 1198
• Publication Date: 2018-02-23
• Subjects: Dermatology -- Periodicals; Skin -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 616.5
• DOI: 10.1111/bjd.16045
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-0963

Abstract

Summary: Hailey–Hailey disease (chronic benign familial pemphigus) is a rare inherited dermatosis typically characterized by erosions at intertriginous sites preceded by minor trauma or stress. We report a case of treatment‐resistant Hailey–Hailey disease having failed topical and oral steroids, prophylactic aciclovir and doxycycline, and systemic therapies including dapsone, acitretin and ciclosporin. Low‐dose naltrexone 4·5 mg once daily was commenced following an incidental benefit in this patient's similarly affected sister. The clinical and psychological response to date has been considerable. Abstract : What's already known about this topic? Low‐dose naltrexone (LDN) is now established as a valid treatment option in chronic inflammatory conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Crohn disease. The purported effect is due to the anti‐inflammatory properties of LDN in combination with mood upregulation and endorphin secretion. What does this study add? This case adds to the evolving evidence base for successful treatment of Hailey–Hailey disease using LDN.