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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
16:07
Determination of the Relative Potency of an Anti-TNF Monoclonal Antibody (mAb) by Neutralizing TNF Using an In Vitro Bioanalytical Method
Published on: September 16, 2017
TNF-alpha inhibitors in dermatology
1Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
Skin Therapy Letter
|October 18, 2007
Summary
Three FDA-approved tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha inhibitors are available for dermatologic conditions. While effective, direct comparisons are lacking, and dermatologists must weigh benefits against risks like declining efficacy and potential side effects.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Three tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha inhibitors are FDA-approved for dermatologic conditions: etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab.
- These biologics target TNF-alpha, a key inflammatory cytokine implicated in various skin diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current landscape of TNF-alpha inhibitors in dermatology.
- To discuss the efficacy, safety, and limitations of these agents based on clinical experience and post-marketing data.
- To highlight the importance of personalized therapy selection for patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of FDA-approved TNF-alpha inhibitors in dermatology.
- Analysis of available efficacy and safety data from clinical trials and post-marketing reports.
- Discussion of clinical experience regarding the strengths and limitations of each agent.
Main Results:
- Etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab are approved for psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis.
- No head-to-head trials exist, making direct comparisons challenging.
- Clinical experience suggests benefits tempered by concerns of waning efficacy, infection risk, lymphoma, demyelinating disorders, and cost.
Conclusions:
- TNF-alpha inhibitors offer significant therapeutic options for dermatologic patients.
- Dermatologists must individualize treatment by considering patient-specific needs and the distinct profiles of each agent.
- Ongoing monitoring is crucial to manage potential long-term risks and optimize patient outcomes.
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