Safety of biologic agents for psoriasis in patients with viral hepatitis

Abstract

Introduction: Biologics are highly effective, important treatment options for moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Biologics are well tolerated and have few side effects. However, the use of biologics in patients with concomitant chronic viral hepatitis is debatable. Recent reports have suggested a very low associated risk of reactivation of chronic hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCB).

Objective: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of biologics for moderate to severe psoriasis patients with concomitant chronic viral hepatitis.

Methods: We followed 39 patients with psoriasis and concurrent chronic viral hepatitis (chronic inactive and occult cases) with no clinical signs and/or lab indication of active liver disease) treated with biologic agents for at least 24 weeks. Patients were regularly monitored for reactivation of viral hepatitis with liver enzymes, viral DNA load, and viral markers.

Results: There was no evidence of viral reactivation until the last available lab investigation results (done three months after stopping the medication). None of the patients showed signs or symptoms of liver failure.

Conclusion: The use of biologic therapy appeared safe and effective in this small cohort of selected patients with chronic HBV and HCV infection. Close monitoring for HBV and HCV viral load is recommended for patients with high-risk factors.

Keywords: Psoriasis; biologics; reactivation; viral hepatitis.