Biologics in dermatology

Abstract

<p class="abstract">The role of biologicals in dermatology has seen an exponential growth in the last few years. Biologicals such as TNF-alpha inhibitors have now lost their novelty and are routinely used all over the world. As the pathogenesis of various diseases is now being understood better, we have been able to create more targeted biological therapies for a number of dermatological conditions. We attempt to compile an update on the newer biologicals in use today, and briefly touch upon the older ones as well. We conducted an extensive literature search and have covered TNF-alpha inhibitors, molecules against T cell receptors, Janus Kinase inhibitors, interleukin based molecules, fusion proteins, and some newer biologicals as well. Their mechanisms of action, indications and dosage have been covered in our review.</p>

What is new in the pathogenesis and management of erythema nodosum leprosum

“…Infliximab is a human-murine chimeric monoclonal antibody against TNF-α, and etanercept is a dimeric fusion protein of the extracellular portion of the p75 TNF receptor coupled to IgG1. [ 92 ] Both of these effectively reduce TNF-α levels and have been found to have impressive clinical responses in ENL. [ 38 93 ] The disadvantage with their use, however, is an increased risk of reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection (more so with infliximab as compared to etanercept).…”