A case series of persistent lymphopaenia following treatment with fumaric acid esters for psoriasis. (11th January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Beatty, Paula Evelyn; Killion, Lisa; Callaghan, Grainne; Tierney, Emma; Kelly, Genevieve; Tobin, Anne Marie
• Is Part Of: Journal of clinical pharmacy and therapeutics. Volume 46:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 859
• Page End: 861
• Publication Date: 2021-01-11
• Subjects: drug‐related -- prescribing -- safety; Clinical pharmacology -- Periodicals; Chemotherapy -- Periodicals; 615
• DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.13354
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0269-4727

Abstract

Abstract: What is known and objective: Fumaric acid esters (FAEs) have been used for fifty years to treat moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis. However, recent case reports of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, associated with FAE‐induced lymphopaenia, have been a cause for concern (J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2009;7:603). Case series: We report six cases of persistent lymphopaenia following cessation of treatment with FAEs, with a mean duration of lymphopaenia of 33 months. What is new and conclusion: Given the lack of evidence regarding expected recovery of lymphocyte counts, further research is required to guide physicians in the risk stratification of patients prior to considering treatment with FAEs.