[Methotrexate therapy in rheumatologic diseases--an update].

This article summarizes the recent literature on low-dose methotrexate in the rheumatologic illnesses. It reviews the efficacy of these agents, the use of combination therapy, and the importance of early treatment with this disease modifying antirheumatic drug. The anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects as well as the toxicity of the drug in rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases are further defined.