[Biologics and infections: understand and recognize]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Biologics are crucial for managing chronic inflammatory dermatoses like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and hidradenitis suppurativa.
• These therapies target specific immunological pathways, offering significant relief from disease activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of potential infection complications associated with systemic biologic therapy in dermatology.
• To highlight the balance between therapeutic efficacy and increased infection susceptibility.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on biologic therapies and their associated infectious risks.
• Analysis of specific examples, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors and interleukin (IL)-17 (IL-17) blockers.

Main Results:

• Systemic biologic therapy, while effective, can impair immune responses.
• TNF-α inhibitors are linked to tuberculosis reactivation.
• IL-17 blockers are associated with increased Candida infections.

Conclusions:

• Understanding and monitoring infection risks is vital for patients undergoing systemic biologic treatment.
• Informed management is necessary to mitigate adverse infectious outcomes in dermatological care.