Acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau response to optimized biological therapy

Abstract

Acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau, first described in 1890, is an uncommon variant of pustular psoriasis. It presents as a sterile pustular eruption of the tips of fingers and toes. The condition has a chronic, relapsing course and is often resistant to many anti-psoriatic therapies. In the following case, we present our experience of etanercept use in a 61-year-old man. Although initial therapy with high-dose etanercept achieved a rapid, sustained response and remission, the lesions relapsed a few months into a lower, maintenance dosage. This result prompted the use a second biotherapeutic agent ustekinumab, which resulted in complete remission, but required a higher dosage than recommended with reduced dosing intervals.