Review of treatments for generalized pustular psoriasis

J Dermatolog Treat. 2021 Aug;32(5):492-494. doi: 10.1080/09546634.2019.1682502. Epub 2020 Jan 15.

Abstract

Background: Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is an uncommon variant of psoriasis that is characterized clinically by sterile pustule formation superimposed over inflamed, erythematous skin.

Methods: In June 2019, we conducted a systematic search of the PubMed Medline database using the keywords 'pustular psoriasis' and 'treatment'.

Results: First-line treatment for the condition consists of established therapies, such as acitretin, cyclosporine, methotrexate, and infliximab. Several medications targeting IL-17 or IL-23 have also emerged recently with drugs such as ixekizumab, secukinumab, brodalumab, guselkumab, and ustekinumab having shown some efficacy.

Conclusions: This review highlights the research in support of common treatments of GPP, including classically used medications and newer monoclonal antibodies, and addresses the continued need for high quality studies regarding treatments for this condition.

Keywords: IL-17; IL-23; IL-36RN; Pustular psoriasis; Von Zumbusch.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • Dermatologic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-17 / immunology
  • Psoriasis / drug therapy*
  • Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / drug therapy

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • IL17A protein, human
  • Interleukin-17