Anti-TNF-Alpha Induced Psoriasiform Eruptions with Severe Scalp Involvement and Alopecia: Report of Five Cases and Review of the Literature

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2012

Authors

Osorio, F (Author) Other; Magro F (Author) FMUP; Carmen Silva (Author) FMUP; Lopes, S (Author) Other; Macedo G (Author) FMUP; Bettencourt, H (Author) Other; Azevedo, F (Author) Other; magina, s (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Dermatology

Vol. 225

Pages: 163-167

ISSN: 1018-8665

Publisher: Karger

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 25 Citations

Scopus - 37 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-002-EQ3

DOI: 10.1159/000342503

Abstract (EN): We describe 5 cases of anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti-TNF-alpha) induced psoriasiform eruptions with severe scalp involvement inducing inflammatory alopecia and review the literature on this subject. All our 5 patients were provided topical therapy, with good results in only 1 case. The remaining 4 were provided systemic therapy (methotrexate +/- cyclosporine): 3 concomitantly suspended the anti-TNF-alpha treatment (2 are currently clear/almost clear but 1 has so far only observed mild improvement) and 1 switched anti-TNF-alpha (recurrent flare-ups of the disease continue). So far, no patient has developed scarring alopecia. To our knowledge, a total of 15 cases of anti-TNF-alpha induced psoriatic alopecia have been described. Anti-TNF-alpha was discontinued in 9 of the 15 patients and systemic therapy was provided to 9 of the 15 patients. Nonetheless, 2 patients developed scarring alopecia. We conclude that in anti-TNF-alpha induced psoriasiform eruptions some patients may respond to topical treatment, however in cases of severe scalp involvement anti-TNF-alpha suspension and systemic treatment should be considered in order to avoid scarring alopecia. Copyright (C) 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 5