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Pharmacogenetics in dermatology: a patient-centered update
Nneka I Comfere1, Ogechi N Ikediobi, Margot S Peters
1Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. comfere.nneka@mayo.edu
International Journal of Dermatology
|June 22, 2013
Summary
Pharmacogenetics uses genetic variations to personalize drug therapy, optimizing efficacy and minimizing toxicity. Clinical application is advancing, guiding treatments like azathioprine, 5-fluorouracil, and trastuzumab in dermatology.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacogenetics
- Genomic Medicine
- Personalized Therapeutics
Background:
- Pharmacogenetics investigates the link between genetic variations and individual responses to medications.
- The goal is to personalize drug therapy, ensuring the right drug and dose for each patient while reducing adverse effects.
- Clinical adoption faces hurdles like a lack of guidelines, ethical considerations, and cost.
Observation:
- Presents three clinical scenarios in dermatology to illustrate pharmacogenetic principles.
- Discusses guiding treatment with specific drugs: azathioprine, 5-fluorourouracil, and trastuzumab.
- Highlights the practical application of pharmacogenetics in a clinical setting.
Findings:
- Therapeutic and toxic drug effects are determined by a patient's unique pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and pharmacogenetic profile.
- Correlating medication pharmacodynamics with single nucleotide polymorphisms is crucial.
- Establishes a foundation for developing test recommendations and standardized therapies.
Implications:
- Pharmacogenetics enables tailored drug selection and dosing for improved patient outcomes.
- Advances in pharmacogenetics can lead to more effective and safer dermatological treatments.
- Standardized pharmacogenetic testing and guidelines will accelerate clinical integration.
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