A case series of persistent lymphopaenia following treatment with fumaric acid esters for psoriasis.

WHAT IS KNOWN AND

OBJECTIVE

Fumaric acid esters (FAEs) have been used for fifty years to treat moderate-to-severe psoriasis. However, recent case reports of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, associated with FAE-induced lymphopaenia, have been a cause for concern (J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2009;7:603).

CASE SERIES: We report six cases of persistent lymphopaenia following cessation of treatment with FAEs, with a mean duration of lymphopaenia of 33 months.

WHAT IS NEW AND

CONCLUSION

Given the lack of evidence regarding expected recovery of lymphocyte counts, further research is required to guide physicians in the risk stratification of patients prior to considering treatment with FAEs.