TNF Inhibitor-Induced Psoriasis: Proposed Algorithm for Treatment and Management

J Psoriasis Psoriatic Arthritis. 2019 Apr;4(2):70-80. doi: 10.1177/2475530318810851. Epub 2018 Nov 21.

Abstract

Tumor necrosis factor a (TNF-α)-targeted therapies have expanded the therapeutic options for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and have significantly improved patients' quality of life. Paradoxically, anti-TNF-α agents may induce psoriatic eruptions or worsen preexisting psoriatic skin disease. Currently, there is no standard approach for the management of TNF inhibitor-induced psoriasis. Here, we conduct a literature review on TNF inhibitor-induced psoriasis and introduce a novel treatment algorithm for maintaining otherwise effective anti-TNF therapy versus switching to a different class as appropriate in the management of patients with IBD, RA, psoriasis, or PsA.

Keywords: TNF inhibitor-induced psoriasis; TNF-α; biologic agents.