Immunomodulators in the treatment of psoriasis
Thappa, D.M.; Laxmisha, C.
Indian Journal of Dermatology Venereology and Leprology 70(1): 1-9
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0973-3922 PMID: 17642548 Document Number: 571887
The efficacy of cyclosporine and related drugs in the treatment of psoriasis was the key to the development of the concept that psoriasis is an immune mediated disorder. These therapies demonstrably reduce the number of activated T-lymphocytes, which correlates with clinical remission. Monoclonal antibodies directed against key components of the inflammatory process have been studied in an attempt to produce safer, more effective and selective immunosuppressive agents. This review summarizes the information available on cyclosporine and related drugs, and cytokine therapy, including monoclonal antibodies directed against T-cell mediated inflammation. It should be realized that biologic therapies for psoriasis are very new and that efficacy and safety information from clinical trials is just becoming available.