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Updated: Jun 18, 2026

The Goeckerman Regimen for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
Published on: July 11, 2013
Psoriasis during interferon beta treatment for multiple sclerosis
Loredana La Mantia1, F Capsoni
1Multiple Sclerosis Center, Neurological Institute C Besta, Via Celoria, 11, 20133, Milan, Italy. lamantia@istituto-besta.it
Abstract:
Previous reports have suggested an increased risk of psoriasis in MS patients. Worsening of dermatologic lesions during interferon therapy has been rarely reported, but activation of psoriatic arthritis has not been described until now. The following is a case report. A 37-year-old woman affected by relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis had severe worsening of cutaneous psoriasis and activation of psoriatic arthritis during interferon beta treatment. The symptoms resolved after therapy discontinuation. This case further supports that activation of psoriasis might be a rare side effect of IFNB therapy and suggests careful evaluation of concomitant morbidity to allow a patient-oriented treatment strategy.
Insights
Interferon beta therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS) may rarely trigger psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Discontinuation of treatment led to symptom resolution in a reported case.
Area of Science:
- Immunodermatology
- Neuroimmunology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
- Previous studies suggest a potential link between MS and an increased risk of psoriasis.
Observation:
- A case report details a 37-year-old female patient with relapsing-remitting MS.
- The patient experienced severe exacerbation of cutaneous psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
- These symptoms emerged during treatment with interferon beta (IFNB).
Findings:
- Interferon beta therapy was associated with the onset of severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
- Discontinuation of interferon beta treatment resulted in the resolution of both dermatologic and arthritic symptoms.
- This case highlights a rare but significant adverse effect of IFNB therapy.
Implications:
- Activation of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis may be a rare side effect of interferon beta therapy.
- Careful monitoring for concomitant dermatologic and rheumatologic conditions is crucial in MS patients undergoing IFNB treatment.
- This case underscores the importance of individualized patient management and treatment strategies.
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