Synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis syndrome treated with a combination of isotretinoin and pamidronate

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2009 Jul;61(1):123-5. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2008.10.046.

Abstract

Synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome is a clinically heterogeneous entity, encompassing a variety of debilitating conditions that have in common inflammation of the skeletal system and skin. To date, there is a paucity of documented efficacious treatment options. We report a 48-year-old man with skeletal and cutaneous signs and symptoms who improved dramatically after treatment with a combination of isotretinoin and pamidronate. This report provides an alternative treatment regimen for SAPHO that addresses the possible underlying pathophysiology of this likely underdiagnosed syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acneiform Eruptions / drug therapy*
  • Diphosphonates / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Humans
  • Hyperostosis / drug therapy*
  • Isotretinoin / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteitis / drug therapy*
  • Pamidronate
  • Psoriasis / drug therapy*
  • Skin Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Syndrome
  • Synovitis / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Diphosphonates
  • Isotretinoin
  • Pamidronate