[Secukinumab-induced subacute-cutaneous lupus erythematosus]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Immunology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Biological therapies, including IL-17 inhibitors like secukinumab, are increasingly used for inflammatory conditions.
• Drug-induced lupus erythematosus (DILE) is a recognized, albeit rare, adverse effect associated with certain medications.
• Understanding the spectrum of side effects for novel biologic agents is crucial for patient safety.

Observation:

• A 52-year-old female patient presented with photosensitive skin lesions consistent with lupus erythematosus.
• The patient was undergoing treatment with secukinumab, a selective IL-17A inhibitor.
• Initial topical corticosteroid therapy demonstrated significant clinical improvement.

Findings:

• The patient's condition was diagnosed as drug-induced lupus erythematosus (DILE) potentially linked to secukinumab therapy.
• DILE represents a rare adverse event, occurring in approximately 0.5-1% of patients on biologic agents.
• IL-17 inhibition therapy is also implicated in the potential development of DILE.

Implications:

• Discontinuation or switching of the causative biologic agent is often necessary for managing DILE.
• This case underscores the importance of monitoring for dermatological side effects in patients receiving secukinumab or similar IL-17 inhibitors.
• Further research into the mechanisms and incidence of DILE with newer biologics is warranted.