Ustekinumab for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in paediatric patients (≥ 6 to < 12 years of age): efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetic and biomarker results from the open-label CADMUS Jr study

Inflammatory Cytokines and Clinical Outcome Following Biological Therapy in Adult Bio-Naïve Psoriasis Patients

Inflammatory cytokines may hold the key to the clinical evolution of psoriasis. The aims of this study are to find a correlation between levels of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-23, IL-17A, and IL-17F and disease duration and severity scores in psoriasis; to test if the decrease in any of the aforementioned cytokines is correlated with an amelioration in disease severity scores; and to analyze if any of the four biologic agents used are linked with a greater decrease in overall cytokine levels. We enrolled 23 adult patients under treatment with ixekizumab, secukinumab, guselkumab, or adalimumab and measured psoriasis disease severity scores PASI (Psoriasis Area Severity Index) and DLQI (Dermatology Life Quality Index), as well as the levels of the aforementioned cytokines at the start of therapy and after 3 months of continuous treatment. Inclusion criteria were the presence of psoriasis, age above 18 years and the need to initiate biological therapy (lack of response to standard treatment). Biological therapies resulted in an amelioration of PASI and DLQI scores, as well as levels of TNF-α, IL-23 and IL-17F. Disease duration and PASI and DLQI scores did not correlate with cytokine levels except DLQI and IL-23 score, in a paradoxically inversely proportional manner. IL-23, in particular, could be a useful biomarker for checking treatment response in psoriasis.

Evolving Landscape of Biologic Therapy for Pediatric Psoriasis

Pediatric psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Current treatment modalities include topical medications, phototherapy, and systemic drugs, including biological agents. In cases of moderate-to-severe psoriasis recalcitrant to other therapies, biological therapies are often an attractive option given their dosing schedules, safety profiles, and need for less frequent laboratory monitoring, when compared with traditional systemic therapies. This article reviews biological treatment options approved for pediatric psoriasis and identifies others actively under investigation.

Drug therapy in juvenile spondyloarthritis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review summarizes latest developments in treatment of juvenile spondyloarthritis (JSpA), specifically enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA) and juvenile psoriatic arthritis (JPsA).

RECENT FINDINGS

There has been addition of biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) beyond tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) for JSpA such as IL-17 blockers, IL-23 blockers, and janus activating kinase inhibitors with favorable safety profile. Conducting robust clinical trials for this subpopulation of JIA remains a challenge; extrapolation studies are being used to obtain approval from regulatory agencies.

SUMMARY

Newer drug therapies have expanded the scope of treatment for patients with JSpA. bDMARDs such as adalimumab, etanercept, infliximab, and secukinumab have demonstrated clinically significant treatment efficacy in ERA and JPsA. Based on extrapolation studies, intravenous golimumab, etanercept, abatacept, and ustekinumab have gained Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for JPsA. Long-term follow-up studies continue to demonstrate acceptable safety profiles. There is need for more real-world data on drug efficacy from Registry studies and research on effective de-escalation strategies.

Reactivation Risk of Latent Tuberculosis or Inactive Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Effectiveness of Ustekinumab in Chinese Plaque Psoriasis Patients: A 28-Week Retrospective, Observational Study

Introduction

This study observed the effectiveness of ustekinumab and reactivation risk of concurrent latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and inactive hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Chinese mainland psoriasis patients on ustekinumab treatment.

Methods

This retrospective, multicenter, observational study was conducted in three centers in China. Adult patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis were treated with ustekinumab for 28 weeks. The effectiveness endpoint included 75% and 90% improvement in Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI75/90) response rate, percentage of PASI improvement, change of absolute PASI score and body surface area involvement (BSA) score, absolute PASI ≤1/3 and Physicians' Global Assessment (PGA)=0/1, as well as Dermatology life quality index (DLQI)=0/1 response rate at week 4, 16 and 28. Screening of tuberculosis and hepatitis were performed at baseline and week 28.

Results

A total of 82 patients were enrolled between March 2021 and May 2023 and the number of patients combined with LTBI and inactive HBV infection was 20 and 21 respectively. The PASI75 and PASI90 response rate at week 28 was 95.1% and 81.7% respectively. The mean PASI score decreased from 14.93 ± 12.07 at baseline to 0.78 ± 1.86 at week 28, and the mean BSA score decreased from 21% ± 18% at baseline to 1% ± 2% at week 28 (both P<0.001 compared with baseline). DLQI 0/1 response rate at week 28 was 73.2%. No reactivation of LTBI and inactive HBV infection and also no new-onset tuberculosis and hepatitis B occurred in patients without LTBI and inactive HBV infection at baseline.

Conclusion

Ustekinumab demonstrated great effectiveness in Chinese plaque psoriasis patients and good safety in psoriasis concurrent with LTBI and inactive HBV infection under the real-world setting.

Treatment of non-systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis

In the past two decades, the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) has evolved markedly, owing to the availability of a growing number of novel, potent and relatively safe therapeutic agents and the shift of management strategies towards early achievement of disease remission. However, JIA encompasses a heterogeneous group of diseases that require distinct treatment approaches. Furthermore, some old drugs, such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine and intraarticular glucocorticoids, still maintain an important therapeutic role. In the past 5 years, information on the efficacy and safety of drug therapies for JIA has been further enriched through the accomplishment of several randomized controlled trials of newer biologic and synthetic targeted DMARDs. In addition, a more rational therapeutic approach has been fostered by the promulgation of therapeutic recommendations and guidelines. A multinational collaborative effort has led to the development of the recommendations for the treat-to-target strategy in JIA. There is currently increasing interest in establishing the optimal time and modality for discontinuation of treatment in children with JIA who achieve sustained clinical remission. The aim of this Review is to summarize the current evidence and discuss the therapeutic approaches to the management of non-systemic phenotypes of JIA, including oligoarthritis, polyarthritis, enthesitis-related arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

Clinical Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Considerations in the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common inflammatory immune disorder due to chronic activation of the adaptive and innate immune responses. Therapies for psoriasis target reducing inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-17, and interleukin-22. Patients with inflammatory disorders have reduced metabolism by cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes due to psoriasis also have an impact on reaching therapeutic concentrations of the drug. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data help determine the safety and clinical considerations necessary when utilizing drugs for plaque psoriasis. A literature search was performed on PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE for the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data of oral therapies and biologics utilized for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. The findings from the literature search were organized into two sections: oral therapies and biologics. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters in healthy patients, patients with psoriasis, and special populations are discussed in each section. The oral therapies described in this review include methotrexate, cyclosporine, apremilast, tofacitinib, and deucravacitinib. Biologics include tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors, interleukin-17 inhibitors, ustekinumab, and interleukin-23 inhibitors. Clinical considerations for these therapies include drug toxicities, dosing frequency, and anti-drug antibodies. Methotrexate and cyclosporine have a risk for hepatoxicity and renal impairment, respectively. Moreover, drugs metabolized via cytochrome P450, including tofacitinib and apremilast have decreased clearance in patients with psoriasis, requiring dose adjustments. Patients treated with therapies such as adalimumab can develop anti-drug antibodies that reduce the long-term efficacy of the drug. Additionally, overweight patients benefit from more frequent dosing to achieve better psoriasis clearance.

A Practical Guide to Using Biologics in Pediatric Dermatology

Psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), atopic dermatitis (AD), and chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), are common, immune-mediated, chronic, inflammatory skin diseases that can affect the pediatric population. While there is adequate evidence supporting the use of biologics in pediatric patients, concerns regarding safety and efficacy amongst healthcare providers are not uncommon. However, new emerging evidence in this population highlights the safety of biologic therapy, making it crucial to review and establish a practical guide for their use. This article describes a methodological framework for initiating biologics in the management of pediatric psoriasis, HS, AD, and CSU, with a special focus on baseline work-up, monitoring, dosing, and considerations in this population.

Management Strategies for Pediatric Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis: Spotlight on Biologics

Although psoriasis onset has been reported at any ages, in up to one-third of cases, it begins during childhood, with an estimated prevalence of about 2% in pediatric population. The management of moderate-to-severe forms of childhood psoriasis may represent a challenge for dermatologists, especially for parents' concerns about the need of systemic treatments. However, a prompt safe and effective treatment is mandatory in these patients, due to the significative impact that psoriasis may have on their quality of life, with well-known consequences on psychological health of both patients and caregivers. Due to the relatively frequent parents' refusal of systemic treatments, probably due to the fear of eventual adverse events, difficulties of oral or injective route, the management of moderate-to-severe forms still represents a challenge. Herein, we report a narrative review, aiming to resume the systemic treatments for pediatric psoriasis, focusing on the use of biologics and small molecules in the pediatric ages. The most widely used therapeutic strategies today for the pediatric population with moderate-severe psoriasis are traditional systemic therapies, while more innovative drugs such as biologics and small molecules now represent a somewhat unexplored but certainly promising field for unresponsive patients.

Childhood guttate psoriasis: an updated review

Background

Guttate psoriasis is common and affects 0.5-2% of individuals in the paediatric age group. This review aims to familiarize physicians with the clinical manifestations, evaluation, diagnosis and proper management of guttate psoriasis.

Methods

A search was conducted in July 2023 in PubMed Clinical Queries using the key term "guttate psoriasis". The search strategy included all observational studies, clinical trials and reviews published within the past 10 years. The information retrieved from the search was used in the compilation of the present article.

Results

Guttate psoriasis typically presents with an abrupt onset of numerous, small, scattered, tear-drop-shaped, scaly, erythematous, pruritic papules and plaques. Sites of predilection include the trunk and proximal extremities. There may be a history of preceding streptococcal infection. Koebner phenomenon is characteristic. Guttate psoriasis may spontaneously remit within 3-4 months with no residual scarring, may intermittently recur and, in 40-50% of cases, may persist and progress to chronic plaque psoriasis. Given the possibility for spontaneous remission within several months, active treatment may not be necessary except for cosmetic purposes or because of pruritus. On the other hand, given the high rates of persistence of guttate psoriasis and progression to chronic plaque psoriasis, some authors suggest active treatment of this condition.

Conclusion

Various treatment options are available for guttate psoriasis. Triggering and exacerbating factors should be avoided if possible. Topical corticosteroids alone or in combination with other topical agents (e.g. tazarotene and vitamin D analogues) are the most rapid and efficient treatment for guttate psoriasis and are therefore the first-line treatment for mild cases. Other topical therapies include vitamin D analogues, calcineurin inhibitors, anthralin, coal tar and tazarotene. Ultraviolet phototherapy is the first-line therapy for moderate-to-severe guttate psoriasis, as it is more practical than topical therapy when treating widespread or numerous small lesions. Systemic immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory therapies (e.g. methotrexate, cyclosporine, retinoids, fumaric acid esters and biologics) may be considered for patients with moderate-to-severe guttate psoriasis who fail to respond to phototherapy and topical therapies.

IL-22 as a target for therapeutic intervention: Current knowledge on its role in various diseases

IL-22 has emerged as a crucial cytokine mediating protective response against pathogens and tissue regeneration. Dysregulated production of IL-22 has been shown to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of various diseases like malignant tumours, viral, cardiovascular, allergic and autoimmune disorders. Interleukin 22 belongs to IFN-IL-10 cytokine family. It is a major proinflammatory cytokine secreted by activated Th1 cells (Th22), though can also be secreted by many other immune cells like group 3 innate lymphocytes, γδ T cells, NK cells, NK T cells, and mucosal associated invariant T cells. Th22 cells exclusively release IL-22 but not IL-17 or IFN-γ (as Th1 cells releases IFN-γ along with IL-22 and Th17 cells releases IL-17 along with IL-22) and also express aryl hydrocarbon receptor as the key transcription factor. Th22 cells also exhibit expression of chemokine receptor CCR6 and skin-homing receptors CCR4 and CCR10 indicating the involvement of this subset in bolstering epithelial barrier immunity and promoting secretion of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from intestinal epithelial cells. The function of IL-22 is modulated by IL-22 binding protein (binds to IL-22 and inhibits it binding to its cell surface receptor); which serves as a competitor for IL-22R1 chain of IL-22 receptor. The pathogenic and protective nature of the Th22 cells is modulated both by the site of infected tissue and the type of disease pathology. This review aims to discuss key features of IL-22 biology, comparisons between IL and 22 and IFN-γ and its role as a potential immune therapy target in different maladies.

Clinical application of serum biomarkers for detecting and monitoring of chronic plaque psoriasis

Psoriasis, a chronic, multisystemic inflammatory disease affecting millions of people globally, manifests as erythematous, thick, scaly plaques on the skin. Clinical evaluation remains to be the benchmark for diagnosis and monitoring of this debilitating disease. With current advancements in targeted molecular therapy for psoriasis such as biologics, molecular detection methods may also help guide clinical decisions and therapeutic strategies through quantification of circulating biomarkers, which could reflect the underlying pathogenic events happening at a certain point of the disease course. In this review, we will discuss how biomarkers are detected in serum samples using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This review will feature candidate biomarkers supported by clinical data for psoriasis including, but not limited to, cytokines, chemokines, adipokines, and antimicrobial peptides. A better understanding of the common method used for biomarker detection would enable physicians to interpret and correlate laboratory results with the disease pathogenesis and clinical outcomes, e.g., severity assessment and/or therapeutic response. With better health outcomes as the main goal, the utility of such information to evaluate and even predict treatment response would be a major step closer towards patient-tailored management.

Biological therapies for the treatment of psoriasis in pediatrics

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis is a multifactorial, immune-mediated condition with predominant skin involvement. It may develop at any age. In one-third of patients, the first symptoms of psoriasis start during childhood or adolescence. A marked impairment of the quality of life of patients and their caregivers is often associated.

AREAS COVERED

Databases including PubMed and Clinicaltrials.gov were used to identify clinical studies involving pediatric patients with psoriasis. In the last few years, the implementation of therapy with drugs targeting cytokines like interleukin (IL)-12/23 and IL-17A has expanded the number of available therapeutic options in pediatric psoriasis. This review focuses on the latest evidence on the clinical efficacy and safety profile of drugs licensed for severe pediatric psoriasis.

EXPERT OPINION

Increasing knowledge about the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying pediatric psoriasis is leading to an improvement in disease management. Effective treatment is crucial in patients affected with moderate to severe disease to reduce the burden of the disease and avoid stigmatization. The treatment of pediatric psoriasis remains challenging for specific clinical subtypes, when difficult areas are involved, after resistance to multiple treatments, and when psoriatic arthritis is associated. A personalized approach and a thorough understanding of the disease are required to advance pediatric psoriasis care.

Development of Antibodies to Ustekinumab Is Associated with Loss of Response in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Monitoring of anti-drug antibodies in patients on ustekinumab is not routinely recommended in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) due to low rates of immunogenicity.

AIM OF STUDY

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between anti-drug antibodies detected by a drug-tolerant assay and loss of response (LOR) to therapy in a cohort of patients with IBD being treated with ustekinumab.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This retrospective study consecutively enrolled all adult patients with moderate to severe active IBD who had at least 2 years of follow-up after ustekinumab was initiated. LOR was defined as CDAI > 220 or HBI > 4 for Crohn's disease (CD) and partial Mayo subscore > 3 for ulcerative colitis (UC) and with a modification in disease management.

RESULTS

Ninety patients were included (78 CD and 12 UC; mean age 37 years). Median levels of anti-ustekinumab antibodies (ATU) were significantly higher in patients with LOR compared to those with ongoing clinical response (15.2 µg/mL-eq CI (7.9-21.5) and 4.7 µg/mL-eq CI (2.1-10.5), respectively; p = 0.04). The area under the ROC curve (AUROC) for ATU in predicting LOR was 0.76. The optimal cut-off point for identifying patients with LOR was 9.5 µg/mL-eq with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 85%. Uni- and multivariate analyses showed that serum ATU ≥ 9.5 µg/mL-eq (hazard ratio (HR) 2.54, 95%CI (1.80-5.93)), p = 0.022, prior vedolizumab (HR 2.78, 95%CI (1.09-3.34), p = 0.019) and prior azathioprine (HR 0.54, 95%CI (0.20-0.76), p = 0.014) exposures were the only factors independently associated with LOR to UST.

CONCLUSION

In our real-life cohort, ATU was identified as an independent predictor of LOR to ustekinumab in patients with IBD.

The evolving landscape of biologic therapies for atopic dermatitis: Present and future perspective

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common, chronic inflammatory skin diseases with a significant physical, emotional and socioeconomic burden. In recent years the understanding of AD pathogenesis has expanded from the Th2-centred perspective, with the recognition of the involvement of other immune axes. In different AD endotypes, influenced by environment, genetics and race, transcriptomic profiles have identified differing contributions of multiple immune axes such as, Th17, Th22 and Th1. The enriched pathogenic model of AD has catalysed the development of numerous biologic therapies targeting a range of key molecules implicated in disease progression. Currently, dupilumab and tralokinumab, which both target the Th2 pathway, are the only approved biologic therapies for AD in the United States and Europe. New biologic therapies in development, however, target different Th2-pathway molecules along with cytokines in other immune axes, including Th17 and Th22, offering promise for varied treatments for this heterogeneous disease. As the biologic pipeline advances, the integration into clinical practice and approval of these experimental biologics may provide more effective, tailored therapeutic solutions and illuminate on the pathologic processes of AD across a broader, more diverse patient population.

Biologics in pediatric psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder with a chronic relapsing course. Biologics have revolutionized the treatment of adult psoriasis with higher efficacy and favorable safety profile. Recently, more studies have focused on the use of biologics in pediatric psoriasis, and several biologics have been approved for use therein. This review is divided into two sections: the first part focuses on real-world studies on the use of biologics in pediatric psoriasis and the second part summarizes the findings of other clinical trials related to biologics in pediatric psoriasis. Case reports have been excluded from this review. Several biologics were used for treating pediatric psoriasis and the efficacy is encouraging. According to the studies included in this review, anti-IL-12/23 and anti-IL-17A for treating pediatric psoriasis might have a better efficacy than anti-TNF-α, but more data are needed.

Juvenile Psoriatic Arthritis: Myth or Reality? An Unending Debate

Juvenile psoriatic arthritis (JPsA) accounts for 1-7% of all cases of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and its definition has been a matter of controversy among pediatric rheumatologists for many years. The traditional attribution of JPsA to the spondyloarthropathy group was challenged in the early 1990s, whereas the recent demonstrations of its heterogenous nature have led to questions about its identification as a distinct category in JIA classification. It has been shown that children with the phenotype of JPsA can be divided in two subgroups, one presenting with the features of early-onset ANA-positive JIA, and another that belongs to the spectrum of spondyloarthropathies. The few studies that have compared the clinical characteristics and genetic determinants of JPsA with those of the other JIA categories have obtained contrasting findings. The debate on the categorization of JPsA as a distinct entity within JIA classification is still ongoing and has prompted the revision of its current classification.

Efficacy and safety of biologics and small molecules for psoriasis in pediatric and geriatric populations. Part I: focus on pediatric patients

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis management is challenging, especially in pediatric age for different factors. The introduction of biologic drugs and oral small molecules (OSM) revolutionized the armamentarium of available weapons in psoriasis treatment. Despite the use of these drugs in adult patients has been widely investigated, pediatric patients have often been unconsidered in clinical trials and real-life studies. However, the high efficacy and speed of action, the safety profile and the ease-to-use administration make these innovative drugs an invaluable therapeutic opportunity.

AREAS COVERED

The aim of this manuscript is to perform a review of the current literature examining data on the effectiveness and safety of biologic drugs and OSM for the management of psoriasis in pediatric patients in order to put the basis for universally shared treatment algorithm following available evidence. PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) guidelines were used for the literature research.

EXPERT OPINION/COMMENTARY

Our review based on currently available evidence suggests biologics and OSM as an ideal treatment option for pediatric patients, with an excellent profile in terms of efficacy and safety as compared to traditional systemic drugs.

Anti-IL 23 biologics for the treatment of plaque psoriasis

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can drastically affect a patient's quality-of-life and is associated with multiple comorbid conditions. The most common form of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, commonly presenting as sharply demarcated, erythematous plaques with overlying silvery scale on the trunk, extensor surfaces, limbs, and scalp. Although initially limited to oral therapies, the choices in systemic therapies for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis have evolved with biologic immunotherapies being the main focus.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, we describe the IL-23/Th17 axis and IL-23 inhibitors as targets for a growing family of biologics. This family includes the FDA-approved medications ustekinumab, guselkumab, tildrakizumab, and risankizumab. We will review the safety and efficacy of these medications throughout various Phase 1,2, and 3, trials for moderate-to-severe psoriasis. A literature search of PubMed was utilized for the following terms: 'psoriasis and IL-23,' 'ustekinumab,' 'guselkumab,' 'tildrakizumab,' and 'risankizumab.' We also searched for clinical trials involving IL-23 inhibitors registered at ClinicalTrials.gov.

EXPERT OPINION

Anti-IL 23 therapy, especially anti-p19 monoclonal antibodies, should be considered first-line therapy for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis due to their efficacy and relative safety. More research is required to expand the scope of anti-p19 therapy to pediatric populations and additional indications such as psoriatic arthritis.

Administration Details of Genetically Engineered Biologic Drug (Ustekinumab) in Children with Psoriasis and Comorbid Metabolic Syndrome or in Case of Previous Biological Therapy Failure: Case Studies

Background. Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated disease with multifactorial nature. It often requires administration of genetically engineered biologic drugs. They have a number of features and risks that depend on various factors. The results of ustekinumab administration as a drug of choice in patients with comorbid metabolic syndrome in a child with Down syndrome, as well as a case of inefficacy of previous biologic therapy with TNFα inhibitors are considered. Clinical cases description. Two clinical cases of ustekinumab administration in children with severe psoriasis have been described. In the first case, we had to choose systemic therapy for the child suffering from Down syndrome and having complex comorbid background: obesity and steatohepatitis. The second case was interesting due to the family history of psoriasis in the patient, who received methotrexate for a long time, and then etanercept with subsequent loss of efficacy and severe disease aggravation without any pathogenetic therapy. Conclusion. Ustekinumab is the favorable genetically engineered biologic drug (according to the studies results and the clinical cases data) for children with severe psoriasis who have comorbid pathologies and who require the change in biologic agent due to its inefficacy.

Biological Treatments for Pediatric Psoriasis: State of the Art and Future Perspectives

Psoriasis is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the skin and is associated with multiple comorbidities with a considerable reduction in quality of life of affected patients. One-third of psoriasis cases begin in childhood and are associated with significant medical comorbidities such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, and psychiatric disorders. In addition, because of its chronic nature and frequent relapses, psoriasis tends to require long-term treatment. Treatment of pediatric psoriasis usually involves the same methods used for adults. However, most treatments for pediatric psoriasis are used off-label, and research in this regard is still lacking. Targeted therapies involving the use of newly developed biologic drugs are also increasingly being applied to childhood psoriasis. This review summarizes the clinical features of pediatric psoriasis and focuses mainly on the updated concepts of pathogenesis and biological treatments of pediatric psoriasis.

Biologics for pediatric moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To compare the efficacy and safety of biologic treatments for moderate-to-severe pediatric psoriasis approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched for the identification of eligible RCTs until May 7, 2021. Fixed-effect frequentist network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed with the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) calculated for ranking. Our primary outcomes included ≥ 90 % improvement of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score (PASI 90) at 12-16 weeks and discontinuation owing to adverse events (DAE) through the first 12-16 weeks.

RESULTS

Five RCTs involving 798 pediatric psoriasis patients were included. Compared to placebo, all biologic regimens exhibited a significantly higher PASI 90 response but did not differ in the risk for DAE. Based on the SUCRA, secukinumab-low dose (SEC-L) ranked first in the achieved PASI 90 response (84.7 %), followed by ixekizumab (70.8 %).

CONCLUSIONS

Among all biologic treatments, SEC-L showed the best PASI 90 response without increasing the risk for DAE. More long-term studies are warranted.

The Role of T Helper 22 Cells in Dermatological Disorders

T helper 22 (Th22) cells are a newly identified subset of CD4+ T cells that secrete the effector cytokine interleukin 22 (IL-22) upon specific antigen stimulation, barely with IFN-γ or IL-17. Increasing studies have demonstrated that Th22 cells and IL-22 play essential roles in skin barrier defense and skin disease pathogenesis since the IL-22 receptor is widely expressed in the skin, especially in keratinocytes. Herein, we reviewed the characterization, differentiation, and biological activities of Th22 cells and elucidated their roles in skin health and disease. We mainly focused on the intricate crosstalk between Th22 cells and keratinocytes and provided potential therapeutic strategies targeting the Th22/IL-22 signaling pathway.

Managing Pediatric Psoriasis: Update on Treatments and Challenges-A Review

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disease with prominent cutaneous features, although the limited number of medications approved for pediatric psoriasis makes treating this population difficult. This review provides an overview of the challenges associated with diagnosing and treating pediatric psoriasis as well as the approved and off-label treatments for children and infants with psoriasis.

METHODS

Articles relevant to pediatric psoriasis were identified using series of PubMed searches. Topics relevant to pediatric psoriasis were explored, including disease characteristics, epidemiology, treatment efficacy and safety, and access to care. Publications previously known to the authors were also included.

RESULTS

Clinical features of psoriasis can be challenging to identify clinically, and patients face challenges gaining access to treatment. Most medications that have been approved for adult psoriasis lack data and labelling to support safe and effective use in pediatric patients, and therefore access is limited. A growing number of clinical trials using biologic agents for pediatric psoriasis aim to broaden available treatment options but may also raise unique concerns associated with the use of these medications in children.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric psoriasis is underrecognized and often undertreated. Clinicians must balance relative risks and potential benefits when developing a treatment strategy for these patients.

Safety evaluation of secukinumab in paediatric patients with plaque psoriasis

INTRODUCTION

: Psoriasis (Ps) is a common chronic, recurrent, immune-mediated, inflammatory skin disease affecting up to 2% children. It has well-established impact on patients' quality of life. Moreover, patients with psoriasis exhibit a higher prevalence of comorbidities, including hypertension, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease. Secukinumab is a fully human monoclonal IL-17A antibody, which has been approved in use for children with psoriasis. Nevertheless, there is very little data on the safety of this therapy in paediatric population.

AREAS COVERED

: The aim of this article was to perform an extensive review of available data concerning secukinumab safety and efficiency in pediatric population used for the treatment of plaque psoriasis. Moreover, special attention was put to underline the adverse effects of secukinumab.

EXPERT OPINION

: Although there is very little evidence on the long-term safety of secukinumab use in pediatric population, this therapy may be a promising modality in children with moderate to severe psoriasis. The available data confirms its favorable safety profile with no serious adverse events and unexpected events. Moreover, the clinical trials revealed sustained efficiency in respect of reaching PASI 75 and decreasing impact of the disease on quality of life.

Effectiveness and Safety of Adalimumab, Etanercept and Ustekinumab for Severe Psoriasis in Children Under 12 Years of Age: A French-Italian Daily Practice Cohort (BiPe Jr)

INTRODUCTION

Biological therapies are valuable treatments for severe psoriasis. Children aged under 12 years are underrepresented in therapeutic trials for these drugs. The objective of the 'BiPe Jr' cohort study was to evaluate the drug survival, effectiveness, tolerance and switching patterns of biological therapies in children under 12 years of age with psoriasis.

METHODS

We conducted a multicentre retrospective study of children with psoriasis who received at least one injection of a biological agent, even off-licence, before the age of 12 years in France and Italy, collecting the data between April and August 2021. The data collected were from March 2012 up to August 2021.

RESULTS

In total, 82 children (mean age: 9.1 years; females: 61.0%) received 106 treatments. The drugs administered were adalimumab (n = 49), etanercept (n = 37), ustekinumab (n = 15), anakinra (n = 2), infliximab (n = 2) and secukinumab (n = 1). The most common form of psoriasis was plaque psoriasis (62.9%). The Physician Global Assessment and the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) scores decreased significantly from baseline to 3 months after treatment initiation for the three main biological drugs; PASI went from 14.1 ± 9.4 to 4.1 ± 11.3 for adalimumab (p = 0.001), 14.9 ± 9.3 to 5.1 ± 4.0 for etanercept (p = 0.002) and 11.6 ± 8.3 to 2.6 ± 2.2 for ustekinumab (p = 0.007). A trend towards higher 2-year maintenance rates was observed for ustekinumab and adalimumab, compared with etanercept (p = 0.06). 52 children discontinued their biological therapy, most frequently due to inefficacy (n = 28) and remission (n = 14). Seven serious adverse events (SAEs) were reported, including four severe infections.

DISCUSSION

Our analyses of drug survival and treatment patterns, combined with those of previous studies conducted in older children, indicate that there is a trend towards higher 2-year survival rates of ustekinumab and adalimumab. The SAEs identified were rare, but highlight the need for increased vigilance concerning infections. Overall, the biological therapies showed good effectiveness and safety profiles when used in daily practice for the treatment of young children with psoriasis.

Efficacy of Systemic Biologic Drugs in Pediatric Psoriasis: Evidence From Five Selected Randomized Clinical Trials

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin disease that may occur at any age. Prevalence in children ranges between 0.5 and 1.0% across Europe. Approximately 10–20% of paediatric psoriasis patients are moderate-to-severe in severity and may require the use of systemic therapy.

Objective: Recently, newer targeted, systemic therapies have been licensed for treatment of moderate-to-severe paediatric psoriasis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the short-term efficacy of available antipsoriatic systemic drugs in children with a narrative synthesis of key efficacy from randomized clinical trials.

Methods: A systematic review of literature was performed on Medline and embase databases and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Randomized clinical trials investigating the efficacy of treatments licensed by the US Food and Drug Administration and/or the European Medicines Agency for paediatric and adolescent psoriatic population were retrieved and analyzed. Data from this literature review was assessed in line with GRADE (grading of recommendations, assessment, development and evaluations). The short-term (12-16 weeks) clinical efficacy from baseline was evaluated according to the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 75 and 90 compared to baseline. Illustrative comparative risks, relative risk (RR) and the number needed to treat (NNT) for response on PASI 75 and PASI 90 were extracted.

Results: A total of five relevant studies were identified on two TNF-alpha blockers (etanercept and adalimumab), the IL12/23 inhibitor ustekinumab and two IL-17 inhibitors (ixekizumab, secukinumab). Comparators were placebo (3 studies), placebo and etanercept (1 study) methotrexate (1 study). All examined drugs resulted efficacious. The probability to achieve PASI 75 and PASI 90 was higher for the IL-12/23 and IL-17 inhibitors. Overall, the anti-IL17s and the anti-IL12/23 antibodies showed a more favourable NNT for PASI 75, whereas IL-17 inhibitors for PASI 90.

Conclusion: The approved biological therapies may be beneficial for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in children and adolescents. Since psoriasis is a chronic and often challenging condition with no definitive solution, systematic evaluations of long-term efficacy, drug survival and adverse effects may help careful, individualized, patient-centered clinical decision making.

TNF-alpha inhibitors and ustekinumab for the treatment of psoriasis: therapeutic utility in the era of IL-17 and IL-23 inhibitors

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition for which eleven FDA-approved biologic therapies are approved. Over the past decade, studies have documented the higher efficacy of IL-17 and IL-23 inhibitors for the treatment of psoriasis compared to the TNF-alpha inhibitors and ustekinumab, an IL-12/23 inhibitor. Despite this, there remains an important role for the use of TNF-alpha inhibitors and ustekinumab in the treatment of psoriasis. Here, we review how considerations of infection and malignancy risk, patient demographics, treatment resistance, and co-morbidities may make certain TNF-alpha inhibitors or ustekinumab an excellent choice for therapy in particular patient subgroups.

Delays Related to Prior Authorization in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

BACKGROUND

Delays in advancing to biologic therapies are associated with adverse outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Insurer-mandated prior authorizations have been linked to prolonged medication initiation times. We hypothesized that prior authorizations are associated with prolonged biologic initiation time and increased IBD-related healthcare utilization among children with IBD.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 190 pediatric patients with IBD initiating biologics at a tertiary care hospital to measure the association between prior authorization, biologic initiation time (physician recommendation to first dose), and healthcare utilization (hospitalization, surgery, or emergency department visit). Demographic, insurance, and disease severity-related covariables were collected. Multivariable linear regression was used to measure the association between prior authorization and biologic initiation time. Propensity score methods were used to measure the associations between prior authorization and IBD-related healthcare utilization within 180 days and corticosteroid dependence at 90 days, with adjustment for insurance type, demographics, and disease severity-related characteristics.

RESULTS

Median biologic initiation time was 21 days. Prior authorization and complicated prior authorizations (requiring appeal, step therapy, or peer-to-peer review) were associated with 10.2-day (95% confidence interval [CI] 8.2 to 12.3) and 24.6-day (95% CI 16.4 to 32.8) increases in biologic initiation time, respectively. Prior authorizations increased the likelihood of IBD-related healthcare utilization within 180 days by 12.9% (95% CI 2.5 to 23.4) and corticosteroid dependence at 90 days by 14.1% (95% CI 3.3 to 24.8).

CONCLUSIONS

Prior authorizations are associated with prolonged biologic initiation time and increased IBD-related healthcare utilization. Minimizing prior authorization-related delays may expedite biologic delivery and reduce the risk of IBD-related healthcare utilization.

Intravenous Golimumab in Patients with Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Juvenile Psoriatic Arthritis and Subcutaneous Ustekinumab in Patients with Juvenile Psoriatic Arthritis: Extrapolation of Data from Studies in Adults and Adjacent Pediatric Populations

OBJECTIVES

To describe the extrapolation approaches used to support intravenous (IV) golimumab for polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) and juvenile psoriatic arthritis (jPsA) and subcutaneous (SC) ustekinumab for jPsA.

METHODS

Pharmacokinetic, clinical response, and safety data from trials of IV golimumab and SC ustekinumab in polyarticular-course JIA (pc-JIA) (GO-VIVA) or pediatric psoriasis (PsO) (CADMUS and CADMUS Jr) and data from pivotal, phase 3 trials of these agents in adults with similar diseases were used to support extrapolation in pJIA and jPsA. In the phase 3 GO-VIVA trial, patients with pc-JIA aged 2 to < 18 years received IV golimumab 80 mg/m² at weeks 0, 4, then every 8 weeks (Q8W). In the phase 3, randomized, placebo-controlled CADMUS trial, patients with PsO aged ≥ 12 to < 18 years received ustekinumab at weeks 0, 4, then Q12W. In the phase 3 CADMUS Jr trial, patients with PsO aged ≥ 6 to < 12 years received ustekinumab at weeks 0, 4, then Q12W. The ustekinumab analyses used data only from patients who received the standard ustekinumab dosing regimen (≤ 60 kg: 0.75 mg/kg; > 60 to ≤ 100 kg: 45 mg; > 100 kg: 90 mg).

RESULTS

In the 127 patients with pc-JIA treated with IV golimumab (GO-VIVA), pharmacokinetic and exposure-response results were similar to those in adults with rheumatoid arthritis treated with IV golimumab. Additionally, pharmacokinetic and clinical response data from five patients with jPsA in GO-VIVA were comparable to those in adults with PsA treated with IV golimumab. No new safety signals were observed in GO-VIVA. Pharmacokinetic and clinical response data observed in the four pediatric patients with PsO and jPsA treated with ustekinumab in CADMUS and CADMUS Jr were similar to those in the 91 pediatric patients with PsO without jPsA in these trials and to those in adults with PsA treated with ustekinumab. Safety was extrapolated from CADMUS or CADMUS Jr; no new signals were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

These three sets of analyses corroborate similar exposure and efficacy of IV golimumab in pediatric patients with pc-JIA or jPsA and SC ustekinumab in patients with jPsA to support extrapolation of established adult efficacy. The overall safety profiles of IV golimumab in pediatric patients with pc-JIA or jPsA and SC ustekinumab in pediatric patients with PsO with or without jPsA were consistent with the safety profiles of these agents in the context of their clinical programs and cumulative use. Based on these analyses, the US Food and Drug Administration approved IV golimumab for polyarticular JIA and active PsA in patients 2 years and older and SC ustekinumab for pediatric PsA in patients 6 years and older, highlighting how use of an extrapolation approach can help streamline drug development for pediatric patient populations in whom larger clinical trials are not feasible.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

GO-VIVA (NCT02277444) was registered at clinicaltrials.gov on 29 October 2014; CADMUS (NCT01090427) was registered on 22 March 2010; and CADMUS Jr (NCT02698475) was registered on 3 March 2016.

Biologics for pediatric psoriasis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Biologics represent a promising treatment for children with moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Randomized control trials (RCTs) have been published evaluating different biologics in children with psoriasis, but no summative review exists.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize data from existing RCTs to assess the efficacy and safety of biologics in the management of pediatric psoriasis.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs was performed from Medline, Embase, PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the American College of Physicians Journal Club from inception to November 2020. Random-effects models were used to estimate the pooled effect size.

RESULTS

Five RCTs assessing adalimumab, etanercept, ixekizumab, secukinumab, and ustekinumab were included (768 patients). The odds ratio of achieving a 75% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity index score was 12.37 (95% CI: 6.23-24.55) at initial follow-up, defined as 12-16 weeks of treatment. The odds ratio of any adverse event was 0.95 (95% CI: 0.51-1.80) at initial follow-up, in patients treated with biologics when compared to placebo or a non-biologic agent. Limitations of this study include heterogeneity in both the study design and the biologics investigated between the RCTs included in the meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

Biologic therapy for pediatric patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis has high efficacy and a favorable side effect profile.

Biologicals for moderate-to-severe plaque type psoriasis in pediatric patients

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis affects around 2% of children in Europe. The majority of cases is readily managed with topical treatments using corticosteroids without or with calcipotriol. More resistant and extensive moderate-to-severe cases require UVA or UVB phototherapies or conventional systemic treatment including ciclosporin, acitretin and methotrexate. However, these therapies are associated with a low tolerability and potential cumulative long-term adverse effects and toxicities.

AREAS COVERED

About 15 years ago, the first biological appeared for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque type psoriasis in adult patients. Several years later, the first biologic treatment to be approved in children was etanercept, a soluble receptor that binds both tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and β followed by adalimumab, a monoclonal antibody against TNF-α, and currently by ustekinumab, a monoclonal IL12/23 p40 antagonist and, very recently, secukinumab and ixekizumab, both IL17 antagonists. All these biologic treatments brought significantly improved treatment results compared to light-based therapies and conventional treatments and present very good tolerance and safety profiles.

EXPERT OPINION

Due to their excellent efficacy and safety profiles ustekinumab, secukinumab and ixekizumab could currently be considered as a first-line treatment options for moderate-to-severe childhood and adolescent psoriasis requiring a systemic treatment.

Molecular Pathogenesis of Psoriasis and Biomarkers Reflecting Disease Activity

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease induced by multifactorial causes and is characterized by bothersome, scaly reddish plaques, especially on frequently chafed body parts, such as extensor sites of the extremities. The latest advances in molecular-targeted therapies using biologics or small-molecule inhibitors help to sufficiently treat even the most severe psoriatic symptoms and the extra cutaneous comorbidities of psoriatic arthritis. The excellent clinical effects of these therapies provide a deeper understanding of the impaired quality of life caused by this disease and the detailed molecular mechanism in which the interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 axis plays an essential role. To establish standardized therapeutic strategies, biomarkers that define deep remission are indispensable. Several molecules, such as cytokines, chemokines, antimicrobial peptides, and proteinase inhibitors, have been recognized as potent biomarker candidates. In particular, blood protein markers that are repeatedly measurable can be extremely useful in daily clinical practice. Herein, we summarize the molecular mechanism of psoriasis, and we describe the functions and induction mechanisms of these biomarker candidates.

Biologic Treatment Algorithms for Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis with Comorbid Conditions and Special Populations: A Review

The emergence of data from clinical trials of biologics, the approval of new biologics, and our improved understanding of psoriasis pathogenesis have increased the therapeutic possibilities for the treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Biologics currently approved for the treatment of psoriasis include tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, interleukin (IL)-17 inhibitors, ustekinumab (an IL-12/23 inhibitor), and IL-23 inhibitors. Data from clinical trials and studies of the safety and efficacy of biologics provide essential information for the personalization of patient care. We discuss the benefits and disadvantages of biologics as a first-line treatment choice, update treatment recommendations according to current evidence, and propose psoriasis treatment algorithms. Our discussion includes the following comorbid conditions: psoriatic arthritis, multiple sclerosis, congestive heart failure, inflammatory bowel disease, hepatitis B, nonmelanoma skin cancer, lymphoma, and latent tuberculosis. We make evidence-based treatment recommendations for special populations, including pediatric patients, patients with coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), and pregnant and breastfeeding patients with psoriasis. Ultimately, individualized recommendations that consider patient preferences, disease severity, comorbid conditions, and additional risk factors should be offered to patients and updated as new trial data emerges.

Targeted Therapy for Pediatric Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an inflammatory immune-mediated skin disease that affects both adults and children. Increased understanding of its pathogenesis has led to the development of highly effective therapeutic solutions in the form of biological drugs for adult patients with severe forms of the disease. The unpredictability of the action of adult-approved drugs in pediatric populations limited their usage in these patients for several years. However, this scenario has been changing, particularly in the last decade, increasing our knowledge of the clinical efficacy and safety of these drugs in pediatric populations. The approval/extensions to approvals of several biological agents throughout the year 2020 makes it important to update the topic. Five biological agents (etanercept, adalimumab, ustekinumab, secukinumab, and ixekizumab) have been approved by the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of psoriasis in pediatric populations, and three of them (etanercept, ustekinumab, and ixekizumab) were also approved by the US FDA for the same purpose. In total, 17 clinical trials of several distinct targeted therapies (tumor necrosis factor, interleukin [IL]-17 and IL-23, and phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors) are ongoing in pediatric patients and will certainly provide crucial data on the subject, which could ultimately improve the armamentarium we have to target psoriasis in this special population.

Perspectives on the pharmacological management of psoriasis in pediatric and adolescent patients

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis affects about 0.5% of children and adolescents, it has a high impact of social life. Management can be difficult. The beginning of the 21st century has been an interesting period for the management of pediatric psoriasis, with access to new topical and systemic treatments including several biotherapies.

AREAS COVERED

Herein, we analyze the current therapeutic strategies for managing psoriasis in young patients, ranging from infants to adolescents, in a holistic approach. Usual treatment but also new galenics, new topical associations, and biological (anti-TNF-alpha, anti-interleukin 12/23, anti-interleukin 17) recently developed are presented. Results from clinical trials are detailed, but also real-world evaluations, and recent guidelines. Practical tips for day-to-day management are finally proposed.

EXPERT OPINION

Currently, we have a wide range of treatments, which we can adapt to all types of psoriasis, depending on the demands of the child and his parents. The near future also looks promising with new topical combinations, new oral therapies (apremilast) and biologics (anti-interleukin 23), as well as genetically targeted therapies for pustular psoriasis.

The IL-23/IL-17 Pathway in Inflammatory Skin Diseases: From Bench to Bedside

Interleukin-17 (IL-17) is an essential proinflammatory cytokine, which is mainly secreted by the CD4⁺ helper T cells (Th17 cells) and subsets of innate lymphoid cells. IL-17A is associated with the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, alopecia areata, pityriasis rubra pilaris, pemphigus, and systemic sclerosis. Interleukin-23 (IL-23) plays a pivotal role in stimulating the production of IL-17 by activating the Th17 cells. The IL-23/IL-17 axis is an important pathway for targeted therapy for inflammatory diseases. Emerging evidence from clinical trials has shown that monoclonal antibodies against IL-23, IL-17, and tumor necrosis factor are effective in the treatment of patients with psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, pityriasis rubra pilaris, pemphigus, and systemic sclerosis. Here, we summarize the latest knowledge about the biology, signaling, and pathophysiological functions of the IL-23/IL-17 axis in inflammatory skin diseases. The currently available biologics targeting the axis is also discussed.

Therapeutic challenges in managing pediatric psoriasis

Background

Each year, 20,000 patients aged <10 years are diagnosed with psoriasis. Pediatric-onset psoriasis has many similarities to adult-onset disease, and previous studies suggest that the incidence might be increasing in both populations.

Objective

The challenges that arise when treating patients with psoriasis, especially those age <12 years, are summarized, as well as the limited available treatment options for treating pediatric patients with psoriasis and the evidence supporting each of them.

Methods

Recently published guidelines by the American Academy of Dermatology and the National Psoriasis Foundations, as well as guidelines published by the German Society of Dermatology, provide considerable insight in managing patients who have this condition. The latest studies on pediatric psoriasis treatment were reviewed, including recent and current clinical trials with U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved and nonapproved medications, case reports, case series, and reviews. The authors also reviewed American and European guidelines, as well as recommendations from expert panels.

Results

Currently, only six medications are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of pediatric psoriasis: three biologics and three topical. Many off-label topical treatments have been used in pediatric psoriasis, with variable effectiveness and safety profiles. Data from adult clinical trials, as well as case reports and series from pediatric patients, suggest that other biologic medications are effective for pediatric psoriasis.

Conclusion

Many questions remain unanswered, leaving clinicians facing multiple challenges when encountering pediatric patients with psoriasis. This summation will help provide an overview of current on- and off-label medications for pediatric psoriasis. Pediatric clinical trials should be implemented to obtain data that can result in expanding the therapeutic spectrum for this population, parallel to their adult counterparts.