A Case Series of TNF Inhibitor-Induced Psoriasis Successfully Treated With Upadacitinib

J Drugs Dermatol. 2024 Feb 1;23(2):e60-e63. doi: 10.36849/JDD.7645.

Abstract

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors (TNF-i) are commonly used to treat immune-mediated diseases such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis (PsA), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), spondyloarthritis (SpA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, paradoxical psoriasis induced by TNF-i has been described and is not uncommon, particularly with infliximab and etanercept. The presentation of TNF-i-induced psoriasis is most commonly plaque or palmoplantar morphology. Optimal treatment strategies for recalcitrant psoriatic disease are not well understood. In this case series, we report three patients with TNF-i-induced psoriasis who were treated with upadacitinib and experienced complete resolution of their psoriatic eruptions. The efficacy of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAK-i) is possibly explained by mechanisms involving uncontrolled production of type 1 IFNs as well as increases in IL-23 and T-helper 17 cells upstream of relevant JAK/STAT pathways. We also offer a proposed treatment algorithm that includes the use of JAK-i as a promising management option in patients with recalcitrant disease. However, larger studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of JAK-i in this patient population. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(2): doi:10.36849/JDD.7645.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • Arthritis, Psoriatic* / drug therapy
  • Heterocyclic Compounds, 3-Ring*
  • Humans
  • Psoriasis* / chemically induced
  • Psoriasis* / diagnosis
  • Psoriasis* / drug therapy
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors* / adverse effects

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Heterocyclic Compounds, 3-Ring
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors
  • upadacitinib