Pyoderma Gangrenosum with Biological Agents Therapy: A Systematic Review

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare disease causing painful skin ulcers, typically starting with tender pustules that quickly develop into painful ulcers. Traditional treatments like glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants often have adverse effects and limited efficacy, making them unsuitable for all patients. Recent evidence shows that biological agents are more effective and safer, leading to increased acceptance. However, selecting the most suitable biological agent from the many available options remains a significant challenge for both physicians and patients.

To systematically review the treatment outcomes of two biologics: TNF (tumour necrosis factors)-α inhibitors and IL (interleukin) inhibitors in pyoderma gangrenosum.

A search of Pubmed was conducted on September 7, 2024. A total of 107 studies were included using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines.

A total of 139 patients were included. Ninety-two were treated with TNF-α inhibitors and 47 with IL inhibitors. The number of included cases and the efficacy are Infliximab (n=52, 88.4%), Adalimumab (n=23, 91.3%), Etanercept (n=13, 84.6%), Certolizumab (n=3, 66.6%), Golimumab (n=1, 100.0%), Anakinra (n=11, 100.0%), Canakinumab (n=7, 100.0%), Secukinumab (n=5, 40.0%), Brodalumab (n=3, 100.0%), Ixekizumab (n=1, 100.0%), Ustekinumab (n=12, 100.0%), Spesolimab (n=3, 100.0%), Guselkumab (n=2, 100.0%), Tildrakizumab (n=2, 100.0%), Risankizuma (n=1, 100.0%). Among them, 46.0% (n=64) achieved complete remission, including 47 (33.8%) who used TNF-α inhibitors and 17 (12.2%) with IL inhibitors. And the total effective rate of IL- inhibitors (93.6%) was higher than that of TNF-α inhibitors (88.0%), but had no statistical significance (p>0.05). However, it takes less time for IL inhibitors to reach partial remission or complete remission. Additionally, in infliximab group, the number of adverse events that occurred was large and varied.

Difference in effective rate shows no statistical significance between two kinds of agents. However, IL inhibitors demonstrate an advantage with shorter treatment cycles. Additionally, Infliximab has a wider range of side effects and should be used with caution.PROSPERO number: CRD42024608039.