Clinical Characteristics of Psoriasis Cases Treated by Biologics With an Extended Administration Interval: A Single-Center, Retrospective Observational Study

Background<br /> Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with multiple organ manifestations such as arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. While recent therapeutic advancements in systemic biologics have demonstrated efficacy against psoriasis, a complete cure has not been achieved and patients require lifelong treatment to control symptoms. Objective<br /> This study aimed to clarify the clinical characteristics of psoriasis patients treated with biologics at an extended interval.<br /> Methods<br /> This study included patients with psoriasis who were administered biologic therapy for longer than the standard interval (at least a week) and who objectively maintained favorable conditions (static Physician's Global Assessment <= 0 to 1). Clinical characteristics, such as body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage, were compared to those of patients who were administered biologic therapy at standard intervals.<br /> Results<br /> Among 162 Japanese patients with psoriasis, 35 were treated with biologics at extended intervals. In the group with extended treatment intervals, patients treated with interleukin (IL) -17 inhibitors (n = 15) presented statistically lower BMI than those treated with IL -23 inhibitors (n = 17) ( P < 0.016). The group treated with IL -17 inhibitors at extended intervals showed significantly lower BMI and body fat percentage than the group at standard intervals ( P < 0.05). Conclusion<br /> Trends in our hospital suggest that psoriasis patients with low BMI and body fat percentage can maintain good status with extended interleukin (IL) -17 inhibitor dosing intervals (static Physician's Global Assessment <= 0 to 1).