Clinical Characteristics of Psoriasis Cases Treated by Biologics With an Extended Administration Interval: A...

Background Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with multiple organ manifestations such as arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. While recent therapeutic advancements in systemic biologics have demonstrated efficacy against psoriasis, a complete cure has not been achieved and patients require lifelong treatment to control symptoms. Objective This study aimed to clarify the clinical characteristics of psoriasis patients treated with biologics at an extended interval. Methods This study included patients with psoriasis who were administered biologic therapy for longer than the standard interval (at least a week) and who objectively maintained favorable conditions (static Physician's Global Assessment ≤ 0 to 1). Clinical characteristics, such as body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage, were compared to those of patients who were administered biologic therapy at standard intervals. Results Among 162 Japanese patients with psoriasis, 35 were treated with biologics at extended intervals. In the group with extended treatment intervals, patients treated with interleukin (IL)-17 inhibitors (n = 15) presented statistically lower BMI than those treated with IL-23 inhibitors (n = 17) (P < 0.016). The group treated with IL-17 inhibitors at extended intervals showed significantly lower BMI and body fat percentage than the group at standard intervals (P < 0.05). Conclusion Trends in our hospital suggest that psoriasis patients with low BMI and body fat percentage can maintain good status with extended interleukin (IL)-17 inhibitor dosing intervals (static Physician's Global Assessment ≤ 0 to 1).