Erythroderma in two patients with psoriasis upon discontinuation of efalizumab treatment

J Dermatolog Treat. 2009;20(1):67-9. doi: 10.1080/09546630802206694.

Abstract

Efalizumab is therapeutically effective in moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Rebound after discontinuing therapy affects approximately 14% of patients, while erythroderma occurs in less than 1% of the treated population. In this case report, we describe two non-responding patients with severe plaque psoriasis who developed erythroderma after treatment was ceased. Non-responders are more likely to suffer from rebound. This article emphasizes the importance of close monitoring of non-responders to efalizumab after discontinuance of treatment.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Dermatitis, Exfoliative / etiology*
  • Dermatitis, Exfoliative / physiopathology
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Monitoring, Physiologic
  • Psoriasis / diagnosis
  • Psoriasis / drug therapy*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / etiology*
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Failure

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • efalizumab