[Beneficial effect of sulfasalazine in spondylarthropathy in 2 patients with HIV infection].

Two HIV-positive males aged 27 and 30 years, respectively, developed spondyloarthropathy with axial and appendicular joint involvement and recurrent diarrhea. Neither patient was able to discontinue nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Consequently, sulfasalazine was given in a daily dosage of 2 grams. Improvements in symptoms occurred in both patients within one month of initiation of sulfasalazine and persisted subsequently. No adverse effects were recorded. Although they require confirmation, these data suggest that sulfasalazine is of use for treating HIV-associated spondylarthropathies.