To study the effectiveness of Methotrexate as a steroid sparing agent in Type 2 Lepra reaction

Abstract

Background & Method: The aim of the study is to study the effectiveness of Methotrexate as a steroid sparing agent in Type 2 Lepra reaction. A thorough clinical history, examination, blood counts, urine routine/microscopy, liver and renal function test, chest radiograph, abdominal-, and/or pelvic- sonography, Urine pregnancy test (if required), anti HIV antibodies (if required) were done in all the study participants.
Result: In the study overall, there were 34 patients who were undergoing treatment and 18
patients had completed their treatment. In group A the number of patients undergoing
treatment was greater than in group B whereas the number of patients who had completed
their treatment was more in group B than group A. The mean duration of MDT treatment was
greater in group B as compared to group A. The mean number of episodes was greater in
group B as compared to group A. Similarly, Reaction severity scores and total duration of
episodes were also more in group B participants as compared to group A.
Conclusion: Methotrexate can serve as a steroid sparing agent in the treatment of T2LR
where it may reduce the severity, duration and recurrences of T2LR. Methotrexate is a
miraculous drug known since long with tremendous familiarity especially to dermatologists
.It serves as a safe and comparatively cheaper therapeutic option