Improvement of Anti-TNF-α Antibody-Induced Palmoplantar Pustular Psoriasis Using a 308-nm Excimer Light

Case Rep Dermatol. 2012 Sep;4(3):261-4. doi: 10.1159/000345468. Epub 2012 Sep 22.

Abstract

Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α antibody is utilized in the treatment of a variety of chronic inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis. However, it can induce paradoxical development and/or exacerbation of psoriasis in the course of anti-TNF-α antibody treatment, which is sometimes refractory to conventional treatments. Herein, we report a case of refractory palmoplantar pustular psoriasis induced by anti-TNF-α antibody treatment, which was improved by treatment with a 308-nm excimer light. The 308-nm excimer light has less long-term risks than narrow-band UVB. The 308-nm excimer light may be a good therapeutic option for refractory psoriatic skin lesions induced by anti-TNF-α antibody therapy because of localized side effects without systemic problems, short length of treatment and low cumulative dosages of UV light.

Keywords: 308-nm excimer light; Anti-TNF-α antibody; Palmoplantar pustular psoriasis; Paradoxical reaction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports