Preliminary Experience with Low-dose Methotrexate in Fibroblastic Rheumatism

Fibroblastic rheumatism (FR) is a rare disease characterized by joint manifestations without joint destruction, and associated with cutaneous nodules and sclerodactyly. The diagnosis is usually based on histologic examination of a skin nodule or synovium specimen. In the 11 previously reported cases, corticosteroid treatment, which has been widely used, was shown to have an unpredictable effect on the evolution of FR. We report a case of FR that was treated with methotrexate for 5 years, which led to complete recovery. This drug may be considered an effective treatment for FR. Further cases are needed to confirm this preliminary experience.