Efficacy and safety of adalimumab in difficult-to-treat psoriasis.

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder, with a prevalence of 2% to 3% worldwide. Psoriatic lesions affecting scalp, nails, palms, and soles are considered difficult-to-treat and require specific management. When psoriasis involves these areas, it may be considered more severe even if the lesions are not extensive. Adalimumab (Humira) is a fully human monoclonal antibody against tumor necrosis factor (TNF), administered via subcutaneous injection. It has already been used in the treatment of adults and children with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis. In literature, few studies investigated its efficacy in difficult-to-treat areas, hence we conducted an observational prospective study of 24 weeks to assess its role in patients with difficult to treat psoriasis. We found out a significant improvement in nail and scalp psoriasis, while palmoplantar and genital psoriasis showed an improvement though not statistically significant. Therefore, adalimumab can be used in difficult-to-treat areas with great results, also allowing an improvement in the quality of life of affected patients, both adults and children.