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.
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.