Objectives. Erythema nodosum is a mostly septal panniculitis usually located on the legs. Corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are ...
PO – SYSTEMIC THERAPY PO1343 - Treatment of erythema nodosum with potassium iodide: Case series and adverse effects E. Zendri, V. Di Lernia, C. Ricci, E. Guareschi, G. Albertini Department of Dermatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy Objectives Erythema nodosum is a mostly septal panniculitis usually located on the legs. Corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are considered first-line drugs, though unsatisfactory results are seen. Saturated solution of potassium iodide is considered as an alternative, rapidly-acting treatment. Studies in this regard are scarce and not recent. Method Patients with clinically/hystologically confirmed erythema nodosum (EN) were treated with saturated solution of potassium iodide (SSKI) at various dosages. Patients were followed up to resolution of the EN. Concurrent diseases were investigated and possible adverse effects carefully monitored. Results During the years 2010-2011, 15 patients with clinically/histologically confirmed EN were eligible for SSKI treatment. Median age was 35,7 (range 16-54). A concurrent disease possibly involved in EN was seen in 13 patients. Rapid improvement was noted in most patients in 1-2 days after starting treatment at a dosage of 300-380 mg three times a day. Adverse effects were mild folliculitis-like eruption in 4 patients, cephalea in 1 patient, gastritis in 1, purpura in 1. In most patients, adjustment of the dosage was sufficient to control adverse effects. 2 patients interrupted treatment because of adverse effects/no benefit achieved. Conclusions Our clinical esperience, though limited to a restricted cohort of patients, confirms that SSKI is a well tolerated drug that is rapidly effective in controlling symptoms and clinical signs of EN.
