Fumaric acid esters in the treatment of psoriasis: an Italian experience

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis is a common, chronic, cell-mediated, inflammatory skin disease. Treatment limitations and a developing understanding of its pathogenesis on a molecular level have encouraged much interest in the field of immunomodulatory therapy.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of fumaric acid esters, in particular dimethylfumarate (DMF), in the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis intolerant and/or resistant to other conventional systemic therapies.

Methods: A total of 40 patients were enrolled in this study. DMF was orally administered at the daily dose of 30 mg up to 360 mg for a minimum of 6 months treatment. Patients were followed-up with psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score assessment, and clinical and photographic documentation.

Results: A total of 33 (82.5%) patients achieved complete clinical remission with DMF treatment: eight after 3 months and 25 after 6 months. Adverse events, such as intolerable abdominal cramps and incoercible diarrhoea, occurred in four patients who, for this reason, interrupted therapy.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that DMF is a safe, effective and well-tolerated long-term oral treatment worthy of consideration for selective patients.