Effects on fibrogenesis markers of rheumatoid arthritis therapy with methotrexate.

Objective: To evaluate the level of 2 serum markers of hepatic fibrogenesis, aminoterminal peptide of type III procollagen (NPIIIP) and laminin P1 fragment (Lam), in patients with rheumatoid arthritis at baseline and after one year of low dose methotrexate (MTX) therapy.

Methods: Serum levels of NPIIIP and Lam were measured in 20 patients, 17 women and 3 men, mean age 48.83 +/- 9.25 yrs. before and after MTX treatment and compared to levels from 20 sex and age matched, healthy controls.

Results: The baseline values of NPIIIP was higher in patients than in controls; it normalized after MTX treatment. The Lam level did not differ between patients and controls; moreover, it did not change after treatment.

Conclusion: Low dose MTX therapy does not increase serum indicator levels of hepatic fibrogenesis.