A Case of Nail Psoriasis Successfully Treated with Intralesional Methotrexate

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the skin, nails, and joints. About 61% of psoriatic patients have nail involvement that can cause a significant social problem. Treating nail psoriasis is challenging but can improve the health outcomes and quality of life of patients. Treatment options available for nail psoriasis including topical therapy, intralesional injections, and systemic and biologic agents have various side effects and some benefits. Management is currently inconclusive. Intralesional injection of methotrexate in nail psoriasis was previously documented in few cases. We present a case of nail psoriasis successfully treated with low-dose intralesional methotrexate with no significant side effects in a 48-year-old psoriatic patient. Given the various side effects of conventional topical and systemic therapies limiting their use, we conclude that intralesional methotrexate injection seems to be a safe and effective treatment option for nail psoriasis. However, large controlled studies are needed.