Author:
Garg Neha,Cohen Ezra,Tsui Edmund,LaMattina Kara C.
Abstract
Purpose:
To describe the effectiveness of leflunomide as adjunctive therapy with anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) agents in pediatric patients with uveitis who are not able to tolerate methotrexate.
Methods:
A retrospective case series was performed of pediatric patients who were receiving leflunomide in conjunction with anti-TNF agent therapy after intolerance to a combination of methotrexate with anti-TNF therapy. Dose and duration of methotrexate, leflunomide, and anti-TNF therapy were recorded. Extensive history, demographics, laboratory data, and uveitis flare rate were obtained.
Results:
A total of five children were included in the study. Most patients were initially receiving methotrexate and an anti-TNF agent was added subsequently due to inadequate response to monotherapy. After discontinuation of methotrexate, leflunomide was initiated with anti-TNF therapy. The replacement of methotrexate with leflunomide showed decreased side effects and was associated with lower flare rates and steroid-free remission.
Conclusions:
Leflunomide was found to be well tolerated and effective at maintaining uveitis quiescence in conjunction with anti-TNF agents in pediatric patients who do not tolerate methotrexate.
[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 20XX;X(X):XX–XX.]
Subject
Ophthalmology,General Medicine,Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health