Bullous pemphigoid induced by biologic drugs in psoriasis: a systematic review

Abstract

Introduction

Several therapies for psoriasis have been described as triggers of biologic-induced bullous pemphigoid (BIBP). The real incidence of BIBP in psoriatic patients is still unknown. Hence, we compilated and analyzed current literature to identify the frequency and burden of this adverse event for psoriasis patients treated with biologics.

Material and method

We systematically searched literature records involving psoriatic patients developing BIBP. Electronic searches were conducted in Pubmed, EMBASE and Scopus in April 2021. To assess the causal relationship between BP and the biologic drug, we applied the Naranjo adverse reaction probability scale and the Karch-Lasagna algorithm.

Results

Our systematic review identified 586 records through the three electronic databases. We identified 15 case reports of BIBP. These cases implicated two cases induced by adalimumab, three by efalizumab, three by etanercept, six by ustekinumab, and one case by secukinumab. Mean period of latency until the BIBP developed was time 5.12 ± 3.44 weeks for TNF-α blockers, and 28.66 ± 26.27 weeks for ustekinumab (p = .09). Most of the cases were assessed as “probable” consistently in both the Naranjo scale and the Karch-Lasagna algorithm.

Conclusion

This work presents an accurate estimation on the frequency and burden of BIBP. Ustekinumab presents with the largest evidence of BIBP, especially in patients with previous failure to TNF-α agents. Distinct patterns in the cytokinic pathways and clinical course exist between the BP induced by TNF-α blockers and ustekinumab. A close monitoring of skin condition is highly advisable in patients receiving biologic therapies for psoriasis. Knowledge of BIBP is of great importance to determine the preventive measures and select optimal treatment options.

What's already known about this topic?

• The widespread use of biologic drugs has led dermatologists to encounter increasing situations of biologic-induced BP (BIBP).

• A lack of data exists on the real incidence of BIBP in psoriatic patients.

• BIBP is an important adverse event to know when managing patients with psoriasis using biologics.

What does this study add?

• This work presents an accurate estimation on the raised burden of BIBP.

• Ustekinumab presents with the largest evidence of BIBP, especially in patients with previous failure to TNF-α agents.

• Mean period of latency until the BIBP developed was time 5.12 ± 3.44 weeks for TNF-α blockers, and 28.66 ± 26.27 weeks for ustekinumab.

• Distinct patterns in the cytokine pathways and clinical course exist between the BP induced by TNF-α blockers and ustekinumab.

• A careful screening of previous history of bullous diseases and a baseline immunologic study in psoriatic patients should be advisable prior to commencing any biologic therapy.

• A close monitoring of skin condition is highly advisable in patients receiving biologic therapies for psoriasis.

Keywords:

• Psoriasis
• biologic
• reaction
• bullous pemphigoid
• management

Disclosure statement

HHE and MS declare no financial or commercial conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

Open Access funding provided by the Qatar National Library.