ISSN:
1365-2133
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Background In inflamed skin, keratinocytes and inflammatory cells both produce large amounts of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) -α, a cytokine with broad effects that are relevant to inflammation. Blockade of this proinflammatory cytokine by a monoclonal anti-TNF-α antibody might be effectively used in the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases. Objectives To gather information about the efficacy of an anti-TNF-α antibody (infliximab) in the treatment of skin lesions of psoriatic arthritis. Methods Six patients with progressive joint disease and psoriatic skin lesions unresponsive to methotrexate therapy were treated with anti-TNF-α antibody. The Psoriasis Area and Severity Index was determined before and 10 weeks after initiation of therapy. Results Improvement of psoriatic skin lesions was observed in all patients. In addition, a marked improvement of the joint disease was noted. Conclusions Therapy with anti-TNF-α antibody may be an effective treatment regimen for both psoriatic arthritis and psoriatic skin lesions.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2133.2001.04089.x
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