Keywords

Biologics, TNF antagonists, T-cell modulators, Comorbidities

 

Authors

  1. Daus, Linda
  2. Elliott, Emily
  3. Young, Melodie

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Psoriasis is a chronic disease marked by relapses and remissions. Further, patients with psoriasis demonstrate interpatient and intrapatient variability in response to therapy. Biologic therapies have significantly changed psoriasis management. Although most patients respond to a biologic therapy, response varies between patients and even within individual patients over time. Patients eligible for biologic therapy who fail to achieve adequate disease control should be considered for a course of an alternative biologic therapy. Because of their unique mechanisms of action, failure to respond to one biologic or class of biologic therapies does not eliminate the possibility of successful treatment with another. Dermatology nurses play a vital role in identifying and managing patients with inadequate response. Assessing patient response and satisfaction on a regular basis is an important element of psoriasis management. Treatment guidelines and clinical practice tools have been developed to guide therapeutic selection and monitor patient response for optimal long-term management of patients.