Ustekinumab: In Psoriasis and Beyond —A Derm atological Perspective

Abstract

Background: Ustekinumab is an interleukin 12/23 inhibitor, approved by the US-FDA for the management of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthropathy. Purpose: This review aims to describe the dermatological implications and applications of ustekinumab. Methods: PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for scholarly articles related to ustekinumab and its utility in dermatology using the search terms “Ustekinumab” AND “Psoriasis” AND “dermatological diseases”. Studies utilising Ustekinumab in psoriasis and other dermatological indications were analysed and formulated into a systematic review discussing the utility of the drug in psoriasis, as well as other dermatological conditions. Results: Ustekinumab is a valuable biologic agent for the management of psoriasis and psoriatic arthropathy, as well as other dermatological disorders like hidradenitis suppurativa, lichen planus, pityriasis rubra pilaris, Behcet’s disease, lupus erythematosus, alopecia areata and pyoderma gangrenosum. Conclusion: Ustekinumab’s usage is not limited to psoriasis. Its benefit extends to many more dermatological conditions. It is considered to be the biologic of choice in childhood psoriasis and adult psoriatic patients with concurrent Crohn’s disease. Besides, it has an acceptable safety profile.