Colchicine for epidermolysis bullosa acquisita.

BACKGROUND

Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA) is a chronic subepidermal blistering disease that is difficult to treat. Recently one patient with severe EBA was described who responded dramatically to colchicine.

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to determine the efficacy of colchicine in the treatment of EBA.

METHODS

Four patients with severe EBA refractory to conventional therapy were treated with colchicine 0.6 to 1.5 mg a day for up to 4 years.

RESULTS

In all four patients the lessening of skin fragility and the decrease in spontaneous blister formation were dramatic; few side effects were noted.

CONCLUSION

Colchicine should be considered in the treatment of EBA.