Psoriasis and comorbid diseases: Epidemiology

Tildrakizumab for the treatment of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder driven by IL-23 and the downstream T-helper cell 17 (Th17) pathway. Tildrakizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody selectively targeting the p19 subunit of IL-23, a key cytokine for Th17 cells. Here, we provide an overview of IL-23 in the context of psoriasis pathogenesis and review the results of the Phase I, II and III clinical trials for tildrakizumab in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis in order to assess its efficacy, safety and clinical usefulness. In all clinical trials, tildrakizumab demonstrated significant clinical improvement and a favorable safety profile. In Phase III trials, 75% of tildrakizumab-treated patients reached a Psoriasis Area and Severity Index 75 at week 28 demonstrating superior efficacy as compared with etanercept treatment. The tildrakizumab-induced reduction in skin inflammation proves the important pathogenic role of IL-23 in psoriasis and further supports the utility of drugs targeting the IL-23/Th17 pathway. Targeting IL-23p19 with tildrakizumab augments the therapeutic repertoire for patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

Assessment of endothelial function during the loading phase of infliximab in psoriasis: a potential predictor of its drug survival

BACKGROUND

Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors decrease the risk of cardiovascular events in moderate to severe psoriasis, but the association between their effects on endothelial function and those on skin lesions has not been well studied. We investigated the association between infliximab effects on endothelial function during the loading phase and those on skin lesions in patients with psoriasis.

METHODS

We evaluated endothelial function with reactive hyperemia-peripheral arterial tonometry index (RHI) in 15 patients with psoriasis before the first and third infusions of infliximab. Patients were stratified into two groups; those who maintained Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 75 response for more than 6 months (defined as responders) and the others (defined as nonresponders).

RESULTS

Six weeks after the initiation of infliximab (before the third infusion), PASI scores were significantly improved compared with baseline, while RHI values were not altered in the whole patient group. However, when the responders and the nonresponders were analyzed separately, RHI values tended to be decreased before the third infusion compared with baseline in the nonresponders, while being unchanged in the responders. Importantly, the difference in ∆RHI reached a statistical significance between the two groups, and the cutoff value (mean - 2 standard deviation of RHI values in the responders) identified the nonresponders with 67% of sensitivity and 100% of specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

The decrease in RHI values before the third infusion may serve as a predictor for the long-term unfavorable effect of infliximab on psoriatic skin lesions.

Efficacy and safety of risankizumab in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (UltIMMa-1 and UltIMMa-2): results from two double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled and ustekinumab-controlled phase 3 trials

BACKGROUND

Risankizumab is a humanised IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds to the p19 subunit of interleukin-23, inhibiting this key cytokine and its role in psoriatic inflammation. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of risankizumab compared with placebo or ustekinumab in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

UltIMMa-1 and UltIMMa-2 were replicate phase 3, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled and active comparator-controlled trials done at 139 sites in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Spain, and the USA. Eligible patients were 18 years or older, with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis. In each study, patients were stratified by weight and previous exposure to tumour necrosis factor inhibitor and randomly assigned (3:1:1) by use of interactive response technology to receive 150 mg risankizumab, 45 mg or 90 mg ustekinumab (weight-based per label), or placebo. Following the 16-week double-blind treatment period (part A), patients initially assigned to placebo switched to 150 mg risankizumab at week 16; other patients continued their originally randomised treatment (part B, double-blind, weeks 16-52). Study drug was administered subcutaneously at weeks 0 and 4 during part A and at weeks 16, 28, and 40 during part B. Co-primary endpoints were proportions of patients achieving a 90% improvement in the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI 90) and a static Physician's Global Assessment (sPGA) score of 0 or 1 at week 16 (non-responder imputation). All efficacy analyses were done in the intention-to-treat population. These trials are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, numbers NCT02684370 (UltIMMa-1) and NCT02684357 (UltIMMa-2), and have been completed.

FINDINGS

Between Feb 24, 2016, and Aug 31, 2016, 506 patients in UltIMMa-1 were randomly assigned to receive 150 mg risankizumab (n=304), 45 mg or 90 mg ustekinumab (n=100), or placebo (n=102). Between March 1, 2016, and Aug 30, 2016, 491 patients in UltIMMa-2 were randomly assigned to receive 150 mg risankizumab (n=294), 45 mg or 90 mg ustekinumab (n=99), or placebo (n=98). Co-primary endpoints were met for both studies. At week 16 of UltIMMa-1, PASI 90 was achieved by 229 (75·3%) patients receiving risankizumab versus five (4·9%) receiving placebo (placebo-adjusted difference 70·3% [95% CI 64·0-76·7]) and 42 (42·0%) receiving ustekinumab (ustekinumab-adjusted difference 33·5% [22·7-44·3]; p<0·0001 vs placebo and ustekinumab). At week 16 of UltIMMa-2, PASI 90 was achieved by 220 (74·8%) patients receiving risankizumab versus two (2·0%) receiving placebo (placebo-adjusted difference 72·5% [95% CI 66·8-78·2]) and 47 (47·5%) receiving ustekinumab (ustekinumab-adjusted difference 27·6% [16·7-38·5]; p<0·0001 vs placebo and ustekinumab). In UltIMMa-1, sPGA 0 or 1 at week 16 was achieved by 267 (87·8%) patients receiving risankizumab versus eight (7·8%) receiving placebo (placebo-adjusted difference 79·9% [95% CI 73·5-86·3]) and 63 (63·0%) receiving ustekinumab (ustekinumab-adjusted difference 25·1% [15·2-35·0]; p<0·0001 vs placebo and ustekinumab). In UltIMMa-2, 246 (83·7%) patients receiving risankizumab versus five (5·1%) receiving placebo (placebo-adjusted difference 78·5% [95% CI 72·4-84·5]) and 61 (61·6%) receiving ustekinumab achieved sPGA 0 or 1 at week 16 (ustekinumab-adjusted difference 22·3% [12·0-32·5]; p<0·0001 vs placebo and ustekinumab). The frequency of treatment-emergent adverse events in UltIMMa-1 and UltIMMa-2 was similar across risankizumab (part A: 151 [49·7%] of 304 and 134 [45·6%] of 294; part B: 182 [61·3%] of 297 and 162 [55·7%] of 291), placebo (part A: 52 [51·0%] of 102 and 45 [45·9%] of 98), ustekinumab (part A: 50 [50·0%] of 100 and 53 [53·5%] of 99; part B: 66 [66·7%] of 99 and 70 [74·5%] of 94), and placebo to risankizumab (part B: 65 [67·0%] of 97 and 61 [64·9%] of 94) treatment groups throughout the study duration.

INTERPRETATION

Risankizumab showed superior efficacy to both placebo and ustekinumab in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Treatment-emergent adverse event profiles were similar across treatment groups and there were no unexpected safety findings.

FUNDING

AbbVie and Boehringer Ingelheim.

Hypertension and risk of psoriasis incidence: An 11-year nationwide population-based cohort study

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is characterized by T-cell mediated immune response, and has been known to increase the risk of developing hypertension. However, the risk of psoriasis in patients with hypertension is not clear. Therefore, we investigated the risk of psoriasis in patients with hypertension. A total of 256,356 adults (42,726 in the hypertension group and 213,630 in the control group) were followed from 2003 to 2013 in a nationwide population-based cohort study. During the follow-up, 9,254 participants (3.6%) were found to have psoriasis (2,152 [5.0%] in the hypertension group and 7,102 [3.3%] in the control group). The hypertension group had a higher risk of psoriasis incidence (hazard ratio [HR] 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.47-1.61, P < 0.001), and the association remained significant after adjusting for comorbidities of diabetes and dyslipidemia, antihypertensive medication and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use, and sociodemographic factors (HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.08-1.28, P < 0.001). In conclusion, hypertension was significantly associated with an increased risk of psoriasis incidence. Further studies are needed to confirm whether hypertension is associated with the incidence of psoriasis.

Position statement for the management of comorbidities in psoriasis

BACKGROUND

The association between psoriasis and some diseases has become relevant in recent years. Providing appropriate management of psoriasis from an early stage requires prompt diagnosis and treatment of concomitant diseases and to prevent any potential comorbidity. This approach should consider the adverse events of the drugs used to treat psoriasis potentially related to the onset of comorbidities.

OBJECTIVE

To provide the dermatologist with an accurate and friendly tool for systematizing the diagnosis of psoriasis-associated comorbidities, which generally escapes the scope of the dermatology setting, and to facilitate decision-making about the referral and treatment of patients with comorbidities.

METHODS

These position statement recommendations were developed by a working group composed of ten experts (four dermatologists, one cardiologist, one rheumatologist, one gastroenterologist, one nephrologist, one endocrinologist and one psychiatrist) and two health services researchers. The expert group selected the psoriasis comorbidities considered according to their relevance in the dermatology setting. The recommendations on diagnostic criteria are based on the current clinical practice guidelines for each of the comorbidities. The information regarding the repercussion of psoriasis medical treatments on associated comorbid diseases was obtained from the summary of product characteristics of each drug.

RESULTS

Recommendations were developed to detect and refer the following psoriasis comorbidities: psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular risk factors (diabetes, dyslipidaemia, obesity, hypertension and metabolic syndrome), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, kidney disease and psychological disorders (anxiety and depression). In addition, alcohol consumption and tobacco consumption were included. The tables and figures are precise, easy-to-use tools to systematize the diagnosis of comorbidities in patients with psoriasis and facilitate the decision-making process regarding referral and treatment of patients with an associated disease.

CONCLUSION

The application of these position statement recommendations will facilitate the dermatologist practice, and benefit psoriasis patients' health and quality of life.

Features of treatment of patients with psoriasis with metabolic syndrome

The article provides information on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in patients with psoriasis. The criteria for the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome are presented. The General mechanisms of inflam - mation development in psoriasis and diseases forming the metabolic syndrome are described. Systemic subclinical inflammatory process developing in psoriasis and metabolic syndrome is considered as the main pathogenetic mechanism of their mutual negative influence. The difficulties of treatment of patients with psoriasis with metabolic syndrome are largely associated with the choice of a safe and effective method of treatment. The description of the drug apremilast (OTEZLA®) is a selective inhibitor of the enzyme phosphodiesterase 4, which may be the best drug in the therapy of patients with psoriasis and metabolic syndrome.

Increased risk of keratopathy after psoriasis: A nationwide population-based study

Background

To evaluate whether the presence of psoriasis increases the risk of keratopathy incidence by using Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD).

Methodology/Principal findings

This retrospective cohort study used data from the NHIRD for the 2009 to 2012 period. A total of 3,648 patients diagnosed with psoriasis were enrolled in the study group while another 14,592 individuals were selected as the control group. The study group was propensity score-matched with a group of controls who had not received a diagnosis of psoriasis. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to estimate the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of keratopathy. For the events of keratopathy, 71 patients in the study group and 208 patients in the control group developed keratopathy with a attributable risk of 23.43 per 100,000 person-months (incidence rate ratio = 1.40; P = 0.01) which correlated to the elevated cumulative probability (P = 0.03). The multivariate analysis revealed that the risk of keratopathy was higher in patients who had psoriasis (aHR = 1.31, P = 0.04). In addition, age older than 60 years (aHR = 2.10, P<0.01) and dry eye disease (aHR = 2.79, P<0.01) would also increase the risk of developing keratopathy.

Conclusions

Psoriasis was associated with an increased risk of keratopathy in patients without preexisting prominent corneal disease. Moreover, the risk of incident keratopathy increases with exposure to psoriasis.

Psoriasis Severity-A Risk Factor of Insulin Resistance Independent of Metabolic Syndrome

Background: It is still debatable whether psoriasis increases cardiovascular risk indirectly since it is associated with metabolic syndrome or is an independent cardiovascular risk factor. The aim of this study was to evaluate psoriasis severity as an independent predictor of insulin resistance (IR) irrespective of the presence of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: This was a case control study including 128 patients stratified into two groups: patients with psoriasis and metabolic syndrome vs. patients with psoriasis and no metabolic syndrome. MetS was diagnosed according to ATP III criteria with homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), as well as a homeostatic model assessment of beta cell function (HOMA-β) were calculated. Results: Compared to subjects without metabolic syndrome, patients with metabolic syndrome had a significantly higher Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) values (p < 0.001). The strongest correlation was established for HOMA-IR and the PASI index (p < 0.001), even after adjustment for body mass index (BMI) in regression analysis model. In patients without MetS and severe forms of disease, the HOMA-IR and HOMA-β values were significantly higher compared to mild forms of disease (p < 0.001 for all) while in subjects with MetS no difference was established for HOMA-IR or HOMA-β based on disease severity. Conclusions: Psoriasis severity is an independent risk factor of HOMA-IR, the strongest association being present in the non-MetS group, who still had preserved beta cell function suggesting direct promotion of atherosclerosis via insulin resistance depending on the disease severity, but irrespective of the presence of metabolic syndrome.

Effects of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-23 and interleukin-17A inhibitors on bodyweight and body mass index in patients with psoriasis

Treatment with tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors has been reported to cause weight gain in patients with psoriasis; however, limited information is available in terms of the effects of interleukin (IL)-23 and IL-17A inhibitors on bodyweight (BW) in patients with psoriasis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of infliximab, ustekinumab and secukinumab on BW and body mass index (BMI) in patients with psoriasis. We retrospectively examined changes in BW and BMI among patients treated with these biologics at our hospital. At baseline, no significant differences in BW and BMI were observed among the patients treated with infliximab (n = 18), ustekinumab (n = 30) or secukinumab (n = 20). After 7 months of the therapy, significant increases in mean BW (from 71.4 to 74.3 kg) and mean BMI (from 24.7 to 25.7) were observed in the patients treated with infliximab, whereas no significant changes were observed in those treated with ustekinumab (BW, from 70.3 to 70.1 kg; BMI, from 25.4 to 25.3) or secukinumab (BW, from 69.0 to 68.9 kg; BMI, from 25.2 to 25.2). There were no differences in the proportion of the patients who showed 75% or more improvement in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index among the three groups. These results suggest that infliximab increases BW in the patients with psoriasis, whereas ustekinumab and secukinumab do not affect the BW in these patients.

Psoriasis: Which therapy for which patient: Psoriasis comorbidities and preferred systemic agents

Psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disease associated with increased risk of comorbidities, such as psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, malignancy, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. These factors have a significant impact on the decision to use one therapy over another. The past decade has seen a paradigm shift in our understanding of the pathogenesis of psoriasis that has led to identification of new therapeutic targets. Several new drugs have gained approval by the US Food and Drug Administration, expanding the psoriasis armamentarium, but still a large number of patients continue to be untreated or undertreated. Treatment regimens for psoriasis patients should be tailored to meet the specific needs based on disease severity, the impact on quality of life, the response to previous therapies, and the presence of comorbidities. The first article in this continuing medical education series focuses on specific comorbidities and provides insights to choose appropriate systemic treatment in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis.

The Gut Microbiome as a Major Regulator of the Gut-Skin Axis

The adult intestine hosts a myriad of diverse bacterial species that reside mostly in the lower gut maintaining a symbiosis with the human habitat. In the current review, we describe the neoteric advancement in our comprehension of how the gut microbiota communicates with the skin as one of the main regulators in the gut-skin axis. We attempted to explore how this potential link affects skin differentiation and keratinization, its influence on modulating the cutaneous immune response in various diseases, and finally how to take advantage of this communication in the control of different skin conditions.

Cutaneous and Mucosal Manifestations Associated with Celiac Disease

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated, gluten-induced enteropathy that affects predisposed individuals of all ages. Many patients with CD do not report gastrointestinal symptoms making it difficult to reach an early diagnosis. On the other hand, CD is related to a wide spectrum of extra-intestinal manifestations, with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) being the best characterized. These associated conditions may be the clue to reaching the diagnosis of CD. Over the last few years, there have been multiple reports of the association between CD and several cutaneous manifestations that may improve with a gluten-free diet (GFD). The presence of some of these skin diseases, even in the absence of gastrointestinal symptoms, should give rise to an appropriate screening method for CD. The aim of this paper is to describe the different cutaneous manifestations that have been associated with CD and the possible mechanisms involved.

Monoclonal antibodies inhibiting IL-12, -23, and -17 for the treatment of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory, immune-mediated skin condition that affects 3 to 4% of the adult US population, characterized by well-demarcated, erythematous plaques with silver scale. Psoriasis is associated with many comorbidities including cardiometabolic disease and can have a negative impact on quality of life. The current armamentarium of psoriasis treatment includes topical therapies, phototherapy, oral immunosuppressive therapies, and biologic agents. Over the past 2 decades, there has been rapid development of novel biologic therapies for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. This article will review the role of IL-12, IL-23, and IL-17 in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and the monoclonal antibodies (ustekinumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, brodalumab, guselkumab, tildrakizumab, and risankizumab) that target these cytokines in the treatment of this disease.

NAT2 Gene Polymorphisms in Turkish Patients with Psoriasis Vulgaris

Psoriasis is a common, chronic, and autoimmune skin disease. Factors that play a role in etiopathogenesis of psoriasis include internal factors such as genetic susceptibility and immunological factors and external factors such as stress, infection, trauma, drug, and environmental compounds. N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) is a xenobiotic enzyme that is involved in the metabolism of drugs, environmental toxins, and carcinogens. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate whether the variations in the NAT2 gene lead to a predisposition to psoriasis by affecting the enzyme's ability to metabolize drugs and environmental components or not. Three polymorphisms (rs1799929, rs1799930, and rs1799931) in NAT2 gene were genotyped and compared by real-time PCR method in 260 psoriasis vulgaris patients and 200 healthy controls. There was no difference in the genotype distributions and allele frequencies of polymorphisms between psoriasis vulgaris patients and controls. When the effects of polymorphisms on the clinical features of the disease, such as onset age and severity, are assessed, it has been found that rs1799930 and rs1799929 are, respectively, associated with early onset age and severity of the disease. In conclusion, rs1799929, rs1799930, and rs1799931 polymorphisms of the NAT-2 gene do not appear to be a risk factor for the development of psoriasis. Conversely, they may have an effect on either more severe or early onset cases of the disease.

Building a Citizen Pscientist: Advancing Patient-Centered Psoriasis Research by Empowering Patients as Contributors and Analysts

Introduction

To design and implement a novel cloud-based digital platform that allows psoriatic patients and researchers to engage in the research process.

Methods

Citizen Pscientist (CP) was created by the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) to support and educate the global psoriatic disease community, where patients and researchers have the ability to analyze data. Psoriatic patients were invited to enroll in CP and contribute health data to a cloud database by responding to a 59-question online survey. They were then invited to perform their own analyses of the data using built-in visualization tools allowing for the creation of “discovery charts.” These charts were posted on the CP website allowing for further discussion.

Results

As of May 2017, 3534 patients have enrolled in CP and have collectively contributed over 200,000 data points on their health status. Patients posted 70 discovery charts, generating 209 discussion comments.

Conclusion

With the growing influence of the internet and technology in society, medical research can be enhanced by crowdsourcing and online patient portals. Patient discovery charts focused on the topics of psoriatic disease demographics, clinical features, environmental triggers, and quality of life. Patients noted that the CP platform adds to their well-being and allows them to express what research questions matter most to them in a direct and quantifiable way. The implementation of CP is a successful and novel method of allowing patients to engage in research. Thus, CP is an important tool to promote patient-centered psoriatic disease research.

Asian consensus on assessment and management of mild to moderate plaque psoriasis with topical therapy

A working group of dermatologists in Asian countries assessed the current status of psoriatic management in the region to prepare a consensus report on topical treatment in mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. Even though the association of psoriasis with systemic comorbidities is increasingly acknowledged, psoriasis is still lower in health‐care priority lists in the region. The psychosocial impact of psoriasis may be greater in Asian countries due to cultural norms and social discrimination. Non‐adherence to treatment is also common among Asians. The current care given to patients with mild to moderate psoriasis needs to be streamlined, enhanced and organized with a patient‐centered care approach to achieve better outcomes. A comprehensive assessment of the disease severity and its impact on a patient's life is required before initiating treatment. Education and active involvement of the patient in the treatment plan is an important part of psoriatic management. It is recommended to personalize topical treatment to meet the needs of the patient, depending on disease severity, psychosocial impact, the patient's expectations and, more importantly, the patient's willingness and ability to actively follow the treatment procedure. Fixed‐dose combination of corticosteroid and vitamin D analogs is the preferred topical medication for both initial and maintenance phases of treatment. The fast containment of the disease is the goal of the initial phase of 4–8 weeks and it demands a potent fast‐acting topical therapy. Satisfactory control of the disease and prevention of relapses should be achieved during the maintenance phase with twice a week or weekend applications.

Anti-inflammatory therapy with tumour necrosis factor inhibitors is associated with reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a systemic chronic inflammatory condition associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Data demonstrating that decreased skin inflammation reduces cardiovascular events in patients with psoriasis may be generalizable to other chronic inflammatory states with heightened cardiovascular risk.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) therapy is associated with decreased major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients with psoriasis.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study using the KPSC health plan, patients had at least three ICD-9 codes for psoriasis and no antecedent MACE codes. Propensity score-adjusted multivariable Cox regression assessed hazard ratios (HR) of MACE associated with TNFi use.

RESULTS

After adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, the TNFi cohort had significantly lower MACE HR compared with the topical cohort (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.66-0.98). The oral/phototherapy cohort had similar MACE HR compared with the topical cohort (HR, 1.19 (95% CI, 0.99-1.42)).

CONCLUSIONS

We observed significantly lower MACE risk in patients with psoriasis receiving TNFi compared to topical or oral/phototherapy agents. TNFi therapy may have benefits beyond skin disease in mitigating cardiovascular event risk.

Interleukin 23 in the skin: role in psoriasis pathogenesis and selective interleukin 23 blockade as treatment

Plaque psoriasis is one of the most common autoimmune skin diseases and is characterized by erythematous, scaly plaques. Many highly effective, targeted therapies have been developed as a result of an improved understanding of the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Using agents that target the central interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 immune axis, this once difficult-to-treat disease is now among the most effectively treated autoimmune diseases with major clinical improvements possible in around 90% of patients. In this article, we outline the immune mechanisms responsible for the development of psoriasis and provide an overview of the novel IL-23 antagonists being used to manage this chronic skin disease.

Safety and efficacy of HCV eradication during etanercept treatment for severe psoriasis

Treatment of severe psoriasis in HCV positive patients is challenging, because several psoriasis medications have a toxic effect on the liver, and interferon alpha, used to treat hepatitis, can induce worsening of psoriatic lesions. TNF-alpha inhibitors seem to be a safe and effective option in HCV positive psoriatic patients, but there are concerns about long-term safety, impact on liver fibrosis progression and risk of immune-mediated liver injury. With regard to HCV treatment, new direct-acting antiviral therapies (DAA) seem to be extremely effective, with minimal side effects, but little is known about possible interactions with other medications, particularly with biologics. We report the case of a psoriatic patient, in treatment with Etanercept, who needed to undergo HCV eradication with Daclastavir and Sofosbuvir because of worsening liver fibrosis due to chronic hepatitis C. The present treatment produced excellent results in terms of HCV eradication and control of psoriatic lesions, without side effects.

A multidimensional assessment of the burden of psoriasis: results from a multinational dermatologist and patient survey

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated disease, characterized by symptoms that include itching and skin pain and is often associated with comorbidities. Patients have a substantial detriment to quality of life (QoL) and work productivity with associated cost burden.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the incremental burden of comorbidities, itch and affected body areas among systemic eligible patients with psoriasis, using a multinational survey of dermatologists and their patients with psoriasis.

METHODS

Multinational data from the Growth from Knowledge (GfK) Disease Atlas Global Real-World Evidence program were used. Eligible patients were identified as those who were currently having or had ever had moderate-to-severe psoriasis, and must have been receiving prescription treatments at the time of the survey. Multivariable regression analyses were conducted to assess the incremental burden among psoriasis patients with physical and psychological comorbidities, itch and affected visible and sensitive body areas vs. psoriasis patients without these conditions, respectively.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 3821 patients with psoriasis, from nine countries, with an average Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score of 6·4. The presence of comorbidities was associated with a significant increase in the likelihood of skin pain, lower QoL, greater work impairment and increased usage of medical resources (except in psoriasis patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes). Psoriasis patients suffering from itch and those with visible and sensitive affected body areas also had impaired QoL vs. those without these conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Psoriasis patients with physical and psychological comorbidities, itch and affected visible and sensitive body areas had lower QoL and greater work impairment compared to those without these conditions.

Systemic Inflammation and Cardiovascular Comorbidity in Psoriasis Patients: Causes and Consequences

Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin disease characterized by the appearance of red scaly plaques that can affect any part of the body. High prevalence, chronicity, disfiguration, disability, and associated comorbidity make it a challenge for clinicians of multiple specialties. Likewise, its complex pathogenesis, comprising inflammation, hyperproliferation, and angioneogenesis, intrigues numerous scientific disciplines, namely, immunology. From a clinical perspective, the severity of psoriasis is highlighted by its increased mortality, with cardiovascular diseases contributing the highest excess risk. From a scientific point of view, psoriasis has to be considered a systemic inflammatory condition, as blood biomarkers of inflammation are elevated and imaging techniques document sites of inflammation beyond the skin. While the association of psoriasis with cardiovascular diseases is now widely accepted, causes and consequences of this association are controversially discussed. This review comments on epidemiologic, genetic, and mechanistic studies that analyzed the relation between psoriasis and cardiovascular comorbidity. The hypothesis of psoriasis potentially being an independent cardiovascular risk factor, driving atherosclerosis via inflammation-induced endothelial dysfunction, will be discussed. Finally, consequences for the management of psoriasis with the objective to reduce the patients’ excess cardiovascular risk will be pointed out.

Interleukin 17, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk in patients with psoriasis

In addition to being recognized as a chronic inflammatory disease that manifests in the skin, psoriasis is increasingly understood to be a systemic disease that causes immune dysregulation throughout the body. The systemic nature of psoriasis is evidenced by the higher burden of comorbidities and shorter life expectancies of patients with psoriasis, particularly those with early-onset and severe disease. Notably, psoriasis is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, which is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with psoriasis. In this review, we examine the association between psoriasis and cardiovascular disease and specifically focus on the role of interleukin 17-mediated inflammation as a potential mechanistic link between psoriasis and cardiovascular disease. Moreover, we describe potential treatment approaches to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease in patients with psoriasis and discuss the clinical importance of the association of these 2 diseases with respect to patient management and education.

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in patients with skin diseases including psoriasis, infections, and atopic dermatitis

The pathogenetic role of vitamin D as well as its clinical correlation in inflammatory skin diseases is still uncertain. This study aimed to compare serum levels of 25(OH) vitamin D (calcidiol) in outpatients suffering from different skin diseases using the same laboratory method in one study. In routine serum samples of 1,532 patients from the previous 12 months we identified retrospectively 180 (mean age 49.4 years, 80 female, 100 male) and 205 (mean age 36.3 years, 116 female, 89 male) patients with psoriasis (PSO) and atopic dermatitis (AD), respectively. Clinical disease activity and quality of life was evaluated using Physicians Global Assessment Scores (PGA), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and a Visual Analog Scale for pruritus in AD, respectively. The median 25(OH)D serum level of all patients (22.97 ng/mL, range 2.61–96.0, n = 1,461) was significantly lower in comparison to healthy controls (41.6 ng/mL, range 16.9–77.57, p < 0.0001, n = 71). In PSO and AD we measured 21.05 ng/mL (44% < 20 ng/mL) and 22.7 ng/mL (39% < 20 ng/mL), respectively (p = 0.152). Among all subgroups, patients with severe acute or chronic infectious skin diseases had the lowest median 25(OH)D serum levels (17.11 ng/mL, n = 94, 66% <20 ng/mL, p < 0,001 vs. AD, p = 0,007 vs. PSO). For PSO and AD there was no significant correlation between 25(OH)D levels and PGA scores and DLQI values, respectively, or the extent of pruritus in AD. 25(OH)D serum levels in inflammatory skin diseases might correlate more with the type of disease and the degree of inflammation than with clinical activity itself.

Choosing First-Line Biologic Treatment for Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis: What Does the Evidence Say?

An advanced understanding of the pathogenesis of psoriasis has led to the development of multiple therapeutic options for moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, ustekinumab, interleukin-17 inhibitors, and guselkumab (an interleukin-23 inhibitor recently approved for psoriasis) are commercially available biologic agents for psoriasis. Evidence from clinical trials provides pertinent information regarding the safety and efficacy of biologic agents for psoriasis, which should be integrated into clinical decision making. However, disease presentations, disease severity, and comorbid conditions can complicate the choice of initial treatment, which underscores the importance of providing personalized therapy for patients with psoriasis. Furthermore, each biologic agent offers unique benefits and limitations for the treatment of patients with psoriasis. Here, evidence-based recommendations are presented and discussed regarding first-line biologic therapy options for patients with psoriasis and distinct comorbid conditions or patient-related factors. We discuss the comorbid conditions of psoriatic arthritis, multiple sclerosis, congestive heart failure, inflammatory bowel disease, hepatitis B, and latent tuberculosis. Moreover, we describe treatment recommendations for distinct patient populations with psoriasis, including pediatric patients with psoriasis and patients with psoriasis of childbearing potential and nursing.

Prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms among attendees of a tertiary care dermatology clinic in Muscat, Oman

BACKGROUND

Various studies have suggested that depression is more prevalent among patients with skin disorders than in the general population. Most of the studies addressing this subject involve Euro-American populations.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depressive symptoms among patients with dermatological disorders and, then, to decipher the clinical-demographic factors associated with depressive symptoms.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among a random sample of patients attending a dermatology clinic in Muscat. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to screen for depressive symptoms. A logistic regression model was used to find the adjusted and unadjusted odds ratios (ORs).

RESULTS

A total of 260 patients participated in this study, with a response rate of 81%. The prevalence of depression symptoms was 24%. According to regression analysis, family history of depression, comorbid medical disorders, and treatment with topicals or isotretinoin were significant predictors of depression (OR = 9.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.27-39.05, P = 0.002; OR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.2-3.21, P = 0.05; OR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.09-4.76, P = 0.028; and OR = 2.78; 95% CI: 1.08-7.19, P = 0.035, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that depressive symptoms are common among patients with dermatological disorders in Oman, particularly in those with a family history of depression and medical comorbidities, and those who use a specific dermatological medication. Screening for depression in patients attending dermatology clinics is essential in order to detect and promptly treat patients suffering from depression.

Epidemiology and Medication Pattern Change of Psoriatic Diseases in Taiwan from 2000 to 2013: A Nationwide, Population-based Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the trend of prevalence and incidence rates for psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and psoriasis in Taiwan, and to determine the changes in medication patterns.

METHODS

Data were collected from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, which covered at least 95% of the population from 2000 to 2013. International Classification of Diseases, 9th edition (ICD-9) was used to identify PsA (ICD-9 696.0) and other psoriasis (ICD-9 696.1). Medications were identified by Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification code. We calculated the annual age standardized prevalence and incidence rate of PsA and psoriasis in individuals aged ≥ 16 years from 2000 to 2013, and used the Poisson regression to test the trends by Wald chi-square statistic.

RESULTS

The prevalence (per 100,000 population) of psoriatic diseases between 2000 and 2013 increased from 11.12 to 37.75 for PsA, and from 179.2 to 281.5 for psoriasis. The incidence (per 100,000 person-yrs) increased from 3.64 to 6.91 in PsA, while there was no significant change in psoriasis. Prevalence and incidence in PsA were more rapidly increased than in psoriasis. Sex ratio (men to women) of PsA decreased from 2.0 to 1.5 in 2000 and 2013, respectively. There was an increase in the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD), especially biologics, which is significantly different from topical therapies.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence and incidence rates of psoriatic disease, especially PsA, were increasing in Taiwan. The medication pattern showed an increase in DMARD and biologics, while use of topical therapies decreased.

Psoriasis: A STAT3-Centric View

Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT)3 has recently emerged as a key player in the development and pathogenesis of psoriasis and psoriatic-like inflammatory conditions. Indeed, STAT3 hyperactivation has been reported in virtually every cell type involved in disease initiation and maintenance, and this factor mediates the signal of most cytokines that are involved in disease pathogenesis, including the central Interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17/IL-22 axis. Despite the recent availability of effective biological agents (monoclonal antibodies) against IL-17 and IL-23, which have radically changed the current standard of disease management, the possibility of targeting either STAT3 itself or, even better, the family of upstream activators Janus kinases (JAK1, 2, 3, and TYK2) offers additional therapeutic options. Due to the oral/topical administration modality of these small molecule drugs, their lower cost, and the reduced risk of eliciting adverse immune responses, these compounds are being actively scrutinized in clinical settings. Here, we summarize the main pathological features of psoriatic conditions that provide the rationale for targeting the JAK/STAT3 axis in disease treatment.

Biologicals and small molecules in psoriasis: A systematic review of economic evaluations

Biological therapy for moderate-to-severe psoriasis is highly effective but cost-intensive. This systematic review aimed at analyzing evidence on the cost-effectiveness of biological treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis. A literature search was conducted until 30/06/2017 in PubMed, Cochrane Library, LILACS, and EconLit. The quality of identified studies was assessed with the checklist by the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination guidance. Out of 482 records, 53 publications were eligible for inclusion. Half of the studies met between 20 and 25 of the quality checklist items, displaying moderate quality. Due to heterogeneity of studies, a qualitative synthesis was conducted. Cost ranges per outcome were enormous across different studies due to diversity in assumptions and model design. Pairwise comparisons of biologicals revealed conflicting results. Overall, adalimumab appeared to be most cost-effective (100% of all aggregated pairwise comparisons), followed by ustekinumab (66.7%), and infliximab (60%). However, in study conclusions most recent publications favored secukinumab and apremilast (75% and 60% of the studies investigating these medications). Accepted willingness-to-pay thresholds varied between 30,000 and 50,000 USD/Quality-Adjusted Life Year (QALY). Three-quarters of studies were financially supported, and in 90% of those, results were consistent with the funder's interest. Economic evaluation of biologicals is crucial for responsible allocation of health care resources. In addition to summarizing the actual evidence this review highlights gaps and needs for future research.

Cardiometabolic Comorbidities in Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis

There is solid epidemiologic evidence linking psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) to cardiovascular risk factors and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Chronic inflammation, with shared pathways and cytokines common to metabolic syndrome, atherosclerosis and psoriasis, might provide the basis for the cardiovascular and metabolic comorbidities of psoriasis and PsA. The purpose of this manuscript is to review recent evidence about the epidemiology and underlying mechanisms of cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular disease in patients with psoriasis and/or PsA; the use of analytical determinations, physiologic measures and imaging techniques as surrogate biomarkers of atherosclerosis, endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease in these patients; and the epidemiological and clinical data, including results of clinical trials, supporting a cardioprotective role of anti-inflammatory and disease-modifying treatment in psoriasis and PsA.

Oral Administration of Vanillin Improves Imiquimod-Induced Psoriatic Skin Inflammation in Mice

Vanillin is one of the most widely used flavoring products worldwide. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. The interleukin-23 (IL-23)/interleukin-17 (IL-17) axis plays a critical role in psoriasis. Here, we analyzed the effect of vanillin on imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriatic skin inflammation in mice. Mice were treated topically with IMQ on the back skin and orally with various amounts of vanillin for 7 consecutive days. Vanillin significantly improved IMQ-induced histopathological changes of skin in a dose-dependent manner. The thickness and number of cell layers of epidermis were reduced by 29 ± 14.4 and 27.8 ± 11%, respectively, in mice given 100 mg/kg of vanillin. A microarray showed that a total of 9042 IMQ-upregulated genes were downregulated by vanillin, and the biological pathways involved in the immune system and metabolism were significantly altered by vanillin. The upregulated expressions of IL-23, IL-17A, and IL-17F genes were suppressed by vanillin, with fold changes of -3.07 ± 0.08, -2.06 ± 0.21, and -1.62 ± 0.21, respectively. Moreover, vanillin significantly decreased both the amounts of IL-17A and IL-23 and the infiltration of immune cells in the skin tissues of IMQ-treated mice. In conclusion, our findings suggested that vanillin was an effective bioactive compound against psoriatic skin inflammation. Moreover, the downregulation of IL-23 and IL-17 expression suggested that vanillin was a novel regulator of the IL-23/IL-17 axis.

Associations between body mass index and severity of psoriasis

Objective

Compared with healthy people, overweight and obesity are more commonly found among those suffering from skin conditions such as psoriasis. The present study was an attempt to survey the relationship between obesity and intensity of psoriasis.

Patients and methods

A total of 42 patients with psoriasis who were referred to Farshchian Hospital, Hamadan, participated in this cross-sectional descriptive–analytical study. Patients were classified into mild, moderate and severe based on the intensity of the disease measured by Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). Body mass index (BMI), waist size, age, gender, smoking and drinking habits of the participants were measured and compared.

Results

A total of 15 (35.07%) patients had mild psoriasis, 9 (21.4%) patients had moderate psoriasis and 18 (42.9%) patients suffered from severe psoriasis. Mean BMI of mild psoriasis patients was 25.86±5.93 kg/m², and this figure for the moderate and severe psoriasis patients was 30.85±3.77 kg/m² and 26.96±5.68 kg/m², respectively (P=0.096). Mean waist size of the mild psoriasis patients was 91.54±11.49 cm, and for moderate and severe patients, it was 99±8.39 cm and 92.17±10.73 cm, respectively (P=0.211).

Conclusion

The results of this study showed no significant difference between mean value of body mass index, waist size, age and gender in mild, moderate and severe groups of the psoriasis patients.

Psoriasis and the risk of diabetes: A prospective population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Data evaluating the impact of objectively measured psoriasis severity on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the risk for T2DM in patients with psoriasis compared with that in adults without psoriasis, stratified by categories of directly assessed body surface area (BSA) affected by psoriasis.

METHODS

A prospective, population-based, cohort study from the United Kingdom in which 8124 adults with psoriasis and 76,599 adults without psoriasis were followed prospectively for approximately 4 years.

RESULTS

There were 280 incident cases of diabetes in the psoriasis group (3.44%) and 1867 incident cases of diabetes in those without psoriasis (2.44%). After adjustment for age, sex and body mass index, the hazard ratios for development of incident diabetes were 1.21 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.44), 1.01 (95% CI, 0.81-1.26), and 1.64 (95% CI, 1.23-2.18) in the groups with 2% or less of their BSA affected, 3% to 10% of their BSA affected, and 10% or more of their BSA affected compared with in the groups without psoriasis, respectively (P = .004 for trend). Worldwide, we estimate an additional 125,650 new diagnoses of T2DM per year in patients with psoriasis as compared with in those without psoriasis.

LIMITATIONS

Relatively short-term follow-up and exclusion of prevalence cases, which may have masked associations in patients with less extensive psoriasis.

CONCLUSION

Clinicians may measure BSA affected by psoriasis to target diabetes prevention efforts for patients with psoriasis.

Psoriasis and Cardiovascular Comorbidities: Focusing on Severe Vascular Events, Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Implications for Treatment

Psoriasis is a common and chronic inflammatory disease of the skin. It may impair the physical and psychosocial function of patients and lead to decreased quality of life. Traditionally, psoriasis has been regarded as a disease affecting only the skin and joints. More recently, studies have shown that psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disorder which can be associated with various comorbidities. In particular, psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of developing severe vascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke. In addition, the prevalence rates of cardiovascular risk factors are increased, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Consequently, mortality rates have been found to be increased and life expectancy decreased in patients with psoriasis, as compared to the general population. Various studies have also shown that systemic treatments for psoriasis, including methotrexate and tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors, may significantly decrease cardiovascular risk. Mechanistically, the presence of common inflammatory pathways, secretion of adipokines, insulin resistance, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, microparticles, and hypercoagulability may explain the association between psoriasis and cardiometabolic disorders. In this article, we review the evidence regarding the association between psoriasis and cardiovascular comorbidities, focusing on severe vascular events, cardiovascular risk factors and implications for treatment.

Psoriasis pathogenesis and the development of novel targeted immune therapies

Psoriasis is caused by a complex interplay between the immune system, psoriasis-associated susceptibility loci, autoantigens, and multiple environmental factors. Over the last 2 decades, research has unequivocally shown that psoriasis represents a bona fide T cell-mediated disease primarily driven by pathogenic T cells that produce high levels of IL-17 in response to IL-23. The discovery of the central role for the IL-23/type 17 T-cell axis in the development of psoriasis has led to a major paradigm shift in the pathogenic model for this condition. The activation and upregulation of IL-17 in prepsoriatic skin produces a "feed forward" inflammatory response in keratinocytes that is self-amplifying and drives the development of mature psoriatic plaques by inducing epidermal hyperplasia, epidermal cell proliferation, and recruitment of leukocyte subsets into the skin. Clinical trial data for mAbs against IL-17 signaling (secukinumab, ixekizumab, and brodalumab) and newer IL-23p19 antagonists (tildrakizumab, guselkumab, and risankizumab) underscore the central role of these cytokines as predominant drivers of psoriatic disease. Currently, we are witnessing a translational revolution in the treatment and management of psoriasis. Emerging bispecific antibodies offer the potential for even better disease control, whereas small-molecule drugs offer future alternatives to the use of biologics and less costly long-term disease management.

Psoriasis-associated vascular disease: the role of HDL

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory systemic disease with a prevalence of 2-3%. Overwhelming evidence show an epidemiological association between psoriasis, cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular disease is the most frequent cause of death in patients with severe psoriasis. Several cardiovascular disease classical risk factors are also increased in psoriasis but the psoriasis-associated risk persists after adjusting for other risk factors.Investigation has focused on finding explanations for these epidemiological data. Several studies have demonstrated significant lipid metabolism and HDL composition and function alterations in psoriatic patients. Altered HDL function is clearly one of the mechanisms involved, as these particles are of the utmost importance in atherosclerosis defense. Recent data indicate that biologic therapy can reverse both structural and functional HDL alterations in psoriasis, reinforcing their therapeutic potential.

Genetics and the metabolic syndrome

Originally coined as "syndrome X" in 1988 by Gerald Reaven (1928), the metabolic syndrome (MetS) encompasses a constellation of risk factors, the coincidence of which amounts to an increased cardiovascular and diabetic risk. Rising numbers of dermatoses are being recognized as cutaneous markers of MetS. Dermatologists should look beyond treating the cutaneous condition and quantify the associated increase in cardiovascular risk. The original dermatosis associated with obesity was acanthosis nigricans-described in 1889 by Paul Gerson Unna (1850-1929) and Sigmund Pollitzer (1859-1937). Over the last 20 years, clear associations between psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and MetS have also emerged. Several studies have shown synergistic improvement in the cutaneous pathology after treatment of components of MetS. This suggests common causalities and is a burgeoning area of research. We review the available evidence about the genetics underlying psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and acanthosis nigricans. Despite the strong clinical associations, the underlying genetic basis for a link to MetS remains unclear.

Risk of malignancy with systemic psoriasis treatment in the Psoriasis Longitudinal Assessment Registry

BACKGROUND

The effect of systemic therapy on malignancy risk among patients with psoriasis is not fully understood.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the impact of systemic treatment on malignancy risk among patients with psoriasis in the Psoriasis Longitudinal Assessment and Registry (PSOLAR).

METHODS

Nested case-control analyses were performed among patients with no history of malignancy. Cases were defined as first malignancy (other than nonmelanoma skin cancer) in the Psoriasis Longitudinal Assessment and Registry, and controls were matched by age, sex, geographic region, and time on registry. Study therapies included methotrexate, ustekinumab, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibitors. Exposure was defined as 1 or more doses of study therapy within 12 months of malignancy onset and further stratified by duration of therapy. Multivariate conditional logistic regression, adjusted for potential confounders, was used to estimate odds ratios of malignancies associated with therapy.

RESULTS

Among 12,090 patients, 252 malignancy cases were identified and 1008 controls were matched. Treatment with methotrexate or ustekinumab for more than 0 months to less than 3 months, 3 months to less than 12 months, or 12 months or longer was not associated with increased malignancy risk versus no exposure. Longer-term (≥12 months) (odds ratio, 1.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.10-2.15; P = .01), but not shorter-term treatment, with a TNF-α inhibitor was associated with increased malignancy risk.

LIMITATIONS

Cases and controls could belong to 1 or more therapy categories.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term (≥12 months) treatment with a TNF-α inhibitor, but not methotrexate and ustekinumab, may increase risk for malignancy in patients with psoriasis.