Adalimumab, a Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor, Is Effective for Severe Childhood Plaque Psoriasis

Adalimumab significantly reduced disease severity compared with methotrexate.

Numerous immunological agents, including methotrexate, and phototherapy have been prescribed for children with psoriasis, although comparisons of their efficacy are lacking. In a randomized, double-blind, controlled phase III trial in 38 countries, researchers compared adalimumab (0.4 mg/kg or 0.8 mg/kg subcutaneously every other week) and methotrexate (0.1–0.4 mg/kg orally) in 114 children aged 4 to 18 years with severe plaque psoriasis unresponsive to topical treatment. The trial was funded by the manufacturer of adalimumab.

At the end of the 16-week treatment period, significantly more patients in the adalimumab 0.8 mg/kg group than the methotrexate group had a 75% reduction in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score (58% vs. 32%).…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

Adalimumab, a Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor, Is Effective for Severe Childhood Plaque Psoriasis

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Reviewing Author