Effect of hydroxychloroquine in cutaneous sarcoidosis or musculoskeletal-related pain

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> In patients with sarcoidosis, cutaneous involvement and musculoskeletal-related pain are prevalent. Besides treatment with immunosuppressants, such as prednisolone or methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) can be used. Data on effectiveness and tolerability are scarce. The aim of this study is to evaluate the indications, effectivity and adverse effects of HCQ monotherapy in sarcoidosis. <b>Method:</b> This is a retrospective study including consecutive sarcoidosis patients on HCQ. Demographic characteristics, treatment indication and disease course were analysed. The effectivity of treatment was defined as continuation of HCQ after 24 weeks. <b>Results:</b> A total of 60 patients were eligible for the study. As expected, the predominant indications for treatment with HCQ were musculoskeletal-related pain and cutaneous manifestations. Treatment of HCQ was effective in 55% of patients after 24 weeks. Of the 60 patients, 25 (41,7%) suffered from adverse effects, mainly gastro-intestinal, leading to treatment discontinuation in 13 patients (21,7%). Effectiveness of treatment was significantly higher in patients with a cutaneous involvement compared to other patients, 84,6% vs 46,8% (p=0.015). <b>Conclusion:</b> Based on our data which is the largest cohort of HCQ treated sarcoidosis patients thus far, treatment with HCQ&nbsp;monotherapy seems reasonably tolerated and effective in 55% of patients with sarcoidosis, especially with cutaneous involvement.