Methotrexate hepatotoxicity in psoriasis. Consideration of liver biopsies at regular intervals

Abstract

Fibrosis of the liver developed to a degree that contraindicated further treatment with methotrexate in 11 of 43 patients receiving maintenance therapy with methotrexate for psoriasis. Liver biopsy was performed prior to initiation of methotrexate therapy and was repeated at 12-18 mo. intervals. Age of the patient and duration of therapy were significant factors in those patients receiving only the weekly oral dosage schedule. Yearly biopsies of the liver are recommended for patients who receive methotrexate throughout their courses of therapy.