Biologics in dermatology beyond psoriasis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Biologic agents, protein-based drugs from living cells, are established treatments for psoriasis.
• Their therapeutic potential extends to numerous inflammatory and autoimmune skin conditions.
• Growing interest exists in exploring their efficacy beyond approved indications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current data on the off-label utilization of biologic agents.
• To assess the effectiveness of biologics in treating various cutaneous diseases beyond psoriasis.
• To provide an overview of biologics for inflammatory dermal processes, autoimmune bullous diseases, connective-tissue diseases, and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).

Main Methods:

• Literature review of available data and clinical reports.
• Focus on studies investigating off-label biologic use in dermatology.
• Synthesis of evidence for specific non-psoriatic dermatologic conditions.

Main Results:

• Biologics show promise in treating conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa and certain autoimmune bullous diseases.
• Evidence suggests efficacy in managing inflammatory dermal processes and connective-tissue diseases.
• Off-label use requires careful consideration of benefit-risk profiles.

Conclusions:

• Biologic agents represent a valuable therapeutic option for a range of off-label dermatologic conditions.
• Further research is warranted to establish definitive guidelines for their use in these diseases.
• The expanding role of biologics highlights advancements in treating complex skin disorders.