Management of Psoriasis and Comorbidities with Biologic Medications

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects over 100 million people worldwide.1 It follows a chronic and relapsing course and carries increased risk for many comorbidities that include: psoriatic arthritis (PsA), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and cardiovascular disease (CVD).3 Dermatology Advanced Practice Providers (APP) and Dermatologists should check for comorbidities and know how each one impacts treatment options. Treatment of psoriasis should be tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient based on disease severity, impact on quality of life, response to previous therapies, and the presence of comorbidities.3 In addition to medical management, patients with psoriasis should be encouraged to lead a healthy lifestyle (proper diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and mental wellness).2 Open communication with the patient, primary care provider, rheumatologist, gastroenterologist and/or cardiologist should be facilitated when appropriate.Doing so will enhance the patient’s quality of life, enable the patient to be engaged in their own care, facilitate comprehensive care across specialties, and ensure that treatment is tailored for the best outcome of each patient