Dutch Trial Finds Methotrexate Matches Prednisone for Pulmonary Sarcoidosis Treatment

Recent research and clinical developments in pulmonary sarcoidosis treatment highlight significant advances. The PREDMETH trial, conducted across multiple Dutch centers, demonstrated that methotrexate is as effective as prednisone in improving lung function over 24 weeks, with differing side effect profiles, supporting methotrexate as a less toxic alternative for some patients. Prednisone acts faster but is associated with side effects like weight gain and insomnia, whereas methotrexate's common side effects include nausea and abnormal liver tests. Additionally, infliximab, a drug previously used for other inflammatory conditions, has been approved and administered in the UK as the first new treatment for pulmonary sarcoidosis in 50 years, targeting immune overactivity and potentially reducing reliance on broad immunosuppressants. These findings and treatment options offer patients and providers more choices tailored to individual needs and may improve quality of life and disease management. Meanwhile, unrelated research indicates that children with cystic fibrosis experience mild COVID-19 courses without long-term lung function impact, underscoring the diverse pulmonary disease landscape.