Frontline Forum Sneak Peek: Expert Insights on Psoriasis Treatment Guidelines

In the recent Dermatology Times custom video series, “Advancements in Psoriasis Care: Navigating Emerging Therapies and Guidelines,” experts in the management of skin conditions discuss the latest developments in plaque psoriasis management, covering emerging oral therapies, novel topical treatments, and advancements in biologic therapy. The panel discussion included Linda Stein-Gold, MD, of Henry Ford Health in Detroit, Michigan; Mona Shahriari, MD, of Yale University in New Haven Connecticut; Michael Cameron, MD, of Cameron Dermatology in New York, New York; Leon Kircik, MD, of DermResearch, PLLC in Louisville, Kentucky; and George Han, MD, PhD, of Hofstra University in Long Island, New York.

The panel of psoriasis experts enjoyed the discussion and even learned valuable pearls from one another. Left to right: Han, Kircik, Shahriari, Cameron

Here are 10 key takeaways from their discussion. Keep your eyes peeled for a more in-depth guide from this Frontline Forum series that will be printed and mailed with the February issue of Dermatology Times.

1. Topical treatments are an important part of dermatologic care and can be used in combination with other treatment methods.

Topical treatments, such as creams, ointments, and gels, are often the first line of defense in treating skin conditions like psoriasis. They can be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as light therapy or systemic medications.

2. Combination therapies involving topicals can be effective in treating psoriasis and other skin conditions.

Combining different types of topical treatments, such as corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors, can be more effective than using a single treatment alone. Combination therapies can also help reduce the risk of side effects associated with long-term use of a single medication.

3. The safety of topical steroids is a concern, and there is a trend towards avoiding their use.

Topical steroids are effective in treating psoriasis, but long-term use can lead to side effects such as skin thinning, stretch marks, and increased risk of infection. As a result, there is a trend towards avoiding their use and exploring non-steroidal alternatives.

4. Steroid withdrawal syndrome is a potential complication of long-term topical steroid use.

Steroid withdrawal syndrome is a condition that can occur when a person stops using topical steroids after long-term use. Symptoms can include redness, itching, and burning of the skin. Patients should be monitored closely when discontinuing topical steroids.

5. Nonsteroidal topical treatments, such as calcineurin inhibitors, can be effective alternatives to steroids.

Calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, are non-steroidal topical treatments that can be effective in treating psoriasis and other skin conditions. They work by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation.

6. Patient education is important in managing skin conditions and ensuring adherence to treatment plans.

Patient education is critical in managing skin conditions like psoriasis. Patients should be informed about their condition, the available treatment options, and the importance of adhering to their treatment plan.

7. Access to medications is a critical issue in dermatologic care.

Access to medications can be a challenge for patients with psoriasis, particularly those who are uninsured or underinsured. This can lead to poor treatment outcomes and increased healthcare costs.

8. Clinical trial data may not always reflect real-world outcomes, and discontinuation rates for medications may be higher in practice.

Clinical trial data may not always reflect real-world outcomes, as patients in clinical trials may be different from those in clinical practice. Discontinuation rates for medications may also be higher in practice due to factors such as side effects or lack of efficacy.

9. The use of live vaccines and other medications may be possible with certain systemic treatments for psoriasis.

Patients receiving systemic treatments for psoriasis, such as biologics, may be able to receive live vaccines and other medications. However, this should be discussed with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and efficacy.

10. The era of biologics has brought more targeted and specific treatments for plaque psoriasis.

Biologics, such as TNF inhibitors and IL-17 inhibitors, are a newer class of medications that target specific molecules involved in the immune response. They have been shown to be effective in treating plaque psoriasis and other skin conditions.