Spesolimab, A Novel Interleukin-36 Inhibitor for Generalized Pustular Psoriasis Flares in Adult Patients

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare, immune-mediated inflammatory disease with characteristic cutaneous and systemic manifestations. Mutations in the interleukin-36 receptor antagonist (IL36RN) gene have been implicated in its pathogenesis. Spesolimab is a novel systemic biologic therapy that selectively inhibits interleukin-36. It was recently approved by Health Canada and the US FDA for the treatment of GPP flares in adults. Results from phase 1 and 2 studies have been promising. Herein, we review the efficacy and safety of spesolimab for the treatment of GPP flares, as demonstrated in clinical trials.

Multicenter Canadian case series of pediatric patients less than 12 years of age with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis treated with dupilumab

BACKGROUND

Dupilumab is approved for moderate-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in patients aged ≥6 months by the US Food and Drug Administration and Health Canada; however, there are little real-world data because providers have limited practical experience with this recently approved therapy.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the real-world effectiveness and safety in patients aged <12 years with moderate-severe AD currently receiving or previously having received dupilumab.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective study was conducted at six Canadian sites. Cases were divided into Group 1 ≤2 years old, Group 2 >2 to <6 years old, and Group 3 ≥6 to <12 years old. Medical history and details of dupilumab treatment were collected. The primary outcome was to measure the improvement in eczema area and severity index. Secondary outcomes examined included the children's dermatology life quality index/infant's dermatitis quality of life, peak pruritus numerical rating scale, and delay to dupilumab access for patients who were considered off-label for dupilumab due to their age.

RESULTS

Sixty three pediatric patients (37 males) with moderate-to-severe AD were included; the mean age was 6.4 years old (range: 2-11) when dupilumab treatment was started. Overall, 75% (36/48) achieved EASI-75% and 71% (34/48) achieved EASI-90. EASI-75 and EASI-90 were achieved in 90% (17/19) and 73% (12/19) in patients <6 years old, and 76% (22/29) and 59% (17/29) in patients >6 years old, respectively. No serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Dupilumab is safe and effective for patients under the age of 12. However, even for experienced providers, access to the medication was challenging.

Baseline Characteristics of Canadian Patients in the Psoriasis Longitudinal Assessment and Registry (PSOLAR)

BACKGROUND

The Psoriasis Longitudinal Assessment and Registry (PSOLAR) is a global, prospective, longitudinal, disease-based registry. It serves as a post-marketing safety commitment with a focus on patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the baseline disease demographics and clinical characteristics of a Canadian subgroup of participants enrolled in PSOLAR.

METHODS

Baseline demographic/disease characteristics, medical histories, and previous psoriasis treatments for Canadian patients in PSOLAR were summarized using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

There were 1896 patients analyzed in the Canadian subgroup at 37 clinical sites, accounting for 15.7% of the global PSOLAR population. Baseline disease and clinical characteristics were as expected for a moderate to severe psoriasis population and were generally similar to the global PSOLAR population. Two distinctions were noted in the Canadian subgroup versus those enrolled globally: a higher proportion of patients were overweight/obese (84.7% vs. 80.4%) and male (61.4% vs. 54.7%). In addition, the Canadian subgroup had numerically higher historical peak disease activity (PGA score 3.35 vs. 3.1) and longer disease duration (22.3 years vs. 17.5 years). Canadian PSOLAR patients reported a variety of comorbidities, including psoriatic arthritis (31.5%), hypertension (34.6%), hyperlipidemia (24.3%), mental illness (24.1%), and inflammatory bowel disease (1.6%).

CONCLUSION

The Canadian subgroup of PSOLAR patients was generally similar to those enrolled globally with respect to baseline disease demographics and clinical characteristics. Multiple comorbidities are noted in the Canadian subgroup, underscoring the need for a holistic approach to the treatment of psoriatic patients.

The burden of palmoplantar pustulosis: A Canadian population-based study of inpatient care, emergency departments, and outpatient clinics

Background

Not much is known about the burden of palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP).

Objectives

To document the burden of PPP in Canada, and to compare with psoriasis vulgaris (PV).

Methods

Adult Canadians (excluding the province of Quebec) hospitalized or visiting an emergency department (ED) or hospital-/community-based clinic between April 1, 2007, and March 31, 2020, with a diagnostic code indicating PPP (ICD-10-CA: L40.3) or PV (ICD10-CA: L40.9 or L40.0) were identified using Canadian administrative data. 10-year prevalent- and 3-year incident-based approaches were conducted. Costs were determined when the most responsible diagnosis (MRD) for the admission was PPP or PV (MRD costs) and for all reasons (all-cause costs).

Results

In the prevalence analysis, the 10-year mean (standard deviation [SD]) and MRD costs were $544 ($1874) for PPP and $222 ($1828) for PV (P < .01). In the incidence analysis, PPP patients had higher 3-year mean (SD) MRD costs ($1078 [$2705]) than PV ($503 [$2267]) (P < .01). All-cause costs were lower for the PPP cohort in the prevalent and incident analyses. There were no differences in all-cause inpatient mortality between PPP and PV.

Limitations

Physician and prescription data were not available.

Conclusion

PPP patients incurred significantly higher MRD costs than PV patients.

The burden associated with generalized pustular psoriasis: A Canadian population-based study of inpatient care, emergency departments, and hospital- or community-based outpatient clinics

Background

Not much is known about the burden of generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP).

Objectives

To document the burden of GPP in Canada and to compare it with psoriasis vulgaris (PV).

Methods

National data were used to identify Canadian adult patients with GPP or PV hospitalized or visiting an emergency department (ED) or hospital-/community-based clinic between April 1, 2007, and March 31, 2020. Analyses of 10-year prevalence and 3-year incidence were conducted. Costs were determined when the most responsible diagnosis (MRD) was GPP or PV (MRD costs) and for all reasons (all-cause costs).

Results

In the prevalence analysis, 10-year mean (SD) MRD costs were $2393 ($11,410) for patients with GPP and $222 ($1828) for those with PV (P < .01). In the incidence analysis, patients with GPP had higher 3-year mean (SD) MRD costs ($3477 [$14,979] vs $503 [$2267] for PV; P < .01). Higher all-cause costs were also associated with patients with GPP. Inpatient/ED mortality was higher in the GPP group in our 10-year prevalence (9.2% for patients with GPP vs 7.3% for those with PV; P = .01) and 3-year incidence (5.2% for patients with GPP and 2.1% for those with PV; P = .03) analyses.

Limitations

Physician and prescription drug data were not available.

Conclusion

Patients with GPP incurred higher costs and mortality than patients with PV.

Efficacy and safety of switching from dupilumab to upadacitinib versus continuous upadacitinib in moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: Results from an open-label extension of the phase 3, randomized, controlled trial (Heads Up)

BACKGROUND

Characterization of upadacitinib use and switching from dupilumab to upadacitinib among patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) is needed.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of continuous upadacitinib 30 mg and switching to upadacitinib after 24 weeks of dupilumab.

METHODS

Adults who completed the phase 3b clinical trial of oral upadacitinib 30 mg vs injectable dupilumab 300 mg (Heads Up) and entered a 52-week open-label extension (OLE) (NCT04195698) were included. All patients received 30-mg upadacitinib during the open-label period. We report results of a prespecified interim OLE 16-week analysis.

RESULTS

Patients (n = 239) continuing upadacitinib maintained high levels of skin and itch response. Patients (n = 245) switching from dupilumab experienced additional incremental improvements in clinical responses within 4 weeks of starting upadacitinib. Most patients who did not achieve adequate clinical responses with dupilumab did so with upadacitinib. The safety profile of upadacitinib up to 40 weeks (week 16 of OLE) was consistent with previous phase 3 AD studies, with no new safety risks observed.

LIMITATIONS

Open-label study design.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical responses are maintained with continuous upadacitinib through 40 weeks and patients regardless of prior dupilumab response experienced improved outcomes when switched to upadacitinib. No new safety risks were observed.

Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib Treatment in Adolescents With Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis: Analysis of the Measure Up 1, Measure Up 2, and AD Up Randomized Clinical Trials

Importance

Atopic dermatitis onset usually occurs in childhood. Persistence of disease into adolescence and adulthood is common. It is important to evaluate new treatment options in adolescents because of the high unmet need in this population.

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of upadacitinib to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in adolescents.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Prespecified analysis of adolescents enrolled in 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 clinical trials in more than 20 countries across Europe, North and South America, Oceania, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region from July 2018 through December 2020. Participants were adolescents aged 12 to 17 years with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Data analysis was performed from April to August 2021.

Interventions

Patients were randomized (1:1:1) to once-daily oral upadacitinib 15 mg, upadacitinib 30 mg, or placebo alone (Measure Up 1 and Measure Up 2) or with topical corticosteroids (AD Up).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Safety and efficacy, including at least a 75% improvement in the Eczema Area and Severity Index from baseline and validated Investigator Global Assessment for Atopic Dermatitis score of 0 (clear) or 1 (almost clear) at week 16 (coprimary end points).

Results

A total of 552 adolescents (290 female; 262 male) were randomized. Mean (SD) age was 15.4 (1.8), 15.5 (1.7), and 15.3 (1.8) years for adolescents in Measure Up 1, Measure Up 2, and AD Up, respectively. In Measure Up 1, Measure Up 2, and AD Up, respectively, a greater proportion of adolescents (% [95% CI]) achieved at least 75% improvement in the Eczema Area and Severity Index at week 16 with upadacitinib 15 mg (73% [63%-84%], 69% [57%-81%], 63% [51%-76%]), and upadacitinib 30 mg (78% [68%-88%], 73% [62%-85%], 84% [75%-94%]), than with placebo (12% [4%-20%], 13% [5%-22%], 30% [19%-42%]; nominal P < .001 for all comparisons vs placebo). Similarly, a greater proportion of adolescents treated with upadacitinib achieved a validated Investigator Global Assessment for Atopic Dermatitis score of 0 or 1 at week 16 and improvements in quality of life with upadacitinib than with placebo. Upadacitinib was generally well tolerated in adolescents. Acne was the most common adverse event, and all acne events were mild or moderate.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this analysis of 3 randomized clinical trials, upadacitinib was an effective treatment for adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, with an acceptable safety profile.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifiers: NCT03569293 (Measure Up 1), NCT03607422 (Measure Up 2), and NCT03568318 (AD Up).

Use of Systemic Therapies for Treatment of Psoriasis in Patients with a History of Treated Solid Tumours: Inference-Based Guidance from a Multidisciplinary Expert Panel

BACKGROUND

Patients with treated solid tumours (TSTs) are a highly heterogeneous population at an increased risk for malignancy compared with the general population. When treating psoriasis in patients with a history of TSTs, clinicians are concerned about the immunosuppressive nature of psoriasis therapies, the possibility of augmenting cancer recurrence/progression, and infectious complications. No direct, high-level evidence exists to address these concerns.

OBJECTIVES

We aim to provide a structured framework supporting healthcare professional and patient discussions on the risks and benefits of systemic psoriasis therapy in patients with previously TSTs. Our goal was to address the clinically important question, "In patients with TSTs, does therapy with systemic agents used for psoriasis increase the risk of malignancy or malignancy recurrence?"

METHODS

We implemented an inference-based approach relying on indirect evidence when direct clinical trial and real-world data were absent. We reviewed indirect evidence supporting inferences on the status of immune function in patients with TSTs. Recommendations on systemic psoriasis therapies in patients with TSTs were derived using an inferential heuristic.

RESULTS

We identified five indirect indicators of iatrogenic immunosuppression informed by largely independent bodies of evidence: (1) overall survival, (2) rate of malignancies with psoriasis and systemic psoriasis therapies, (3) rate of infections with psoriasis and systemic psoriasis therapies, (4) common disease biochemical pathways for solid tumours and systemic psoriasis therapies, and (5) solid organ transplant outcomes. On the basis of review of the totality of this data, we provided inference-based conclusions and ascribed level of support for each statement.

CONCLUSIONS

Prior to considering new therapies for psoriasis, an understanding of cancer prognosis should be addressed. Patients with TSTs and a good cancer prognosis will have similar outcomes to non-TST patients when treated with systemic psoriasis therapies. For patients with TSTs and a poor cancer prognosis, the quality-of-life benefits of treating psoriasis may outweigh the theoretical risks.

Cross-sectional quantitative validation of the pediatric Localized Scleroderma Quality of Life Instrument (LoSQI): A disease-specific patient-reported outcome measure

BACKGROUND

The Localized Scleroderma Quality of Life Instrument (LoSQI) is a disease-specific patient-reported outcome (PRO) measure designed for children and adolescents with localized scleroderma (LS; morphea). This tool was developed using rigorous PRO methods and previously cognitively tested in a sample of pediatric patients with LS.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the LoSQI in a clinical setting.

METHODS

Cross-sectional data from four specialized clinics in the US and Canada were included in the analysis. Evaluation included reliability of scores, internal structure of the survey, evidence of convergent and divergent validity, and test-retest reliability.

RESULTS

One-hundred ten patients with LS (age: 8-20 years) completed the LoSQI. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis supported the use of two sub-scores: Pain & Physical Functioning and Body Image & Social Support. Correlations with other PRO measures were consistent with pre-specified hypotheses.

LIMITATIONS

This study did not evaluate longitudinal validity or responsiveness of scores.

CONCLUSION

Results from a representative sample of children and adolescents with LS continue to support the validity of the LoSQI when used in a clinical setting. Future work to evaluate the responsiveness is ongoing.

The burden of alopecia areata: A scoping review focusing on quality of life, mental health and work productivity

Alopecia areata (AA) is a common inflammatory autoimmune disease of the hair which can have a significant negative impact on quality of life (QoL), mental health and productivity. The aim of this scoping review is to elucidate the burden of AA focusing on these three realms. Inclusion criteria included all original manuscripts with no restriction on study type or statistical method written in English (or having an English abstract). For QoL 40 articles were included, 85 for psychiatric comorbidities, and 9 for work/school absenteeism/presenteeism mostly consisting of cross-sectional and observational cohort studies. QoL impairment was detected in over 75% of patients and up to one-third reported extremely severe QoL impairments. Specific QoL dimensions with the greatest impact were embarrassment, social functioning, as well as shopping and/or housework. Cross-sectional studies assessing the psychological burden of adult patients with AA found that the presence of signs of anxiety and/or depression ranged from 30% to 68% and affected all age groups. Rates of work absenteeism and unemployment were significantly higher in AA patients compared to healthy controls. Up to 62% reported making major life decisions including relationships, education and career based on their AA. Additionally, the extensive camouflage techniques and time lost from work led to a strong financial burden for patients and the numerous physician visits added to the healthcare costs. The overall impact of AA stretches much further than simply being an aesthetic concern and can negatively impact every part of an individual's life. An individualized approach and effective treatments will help reduce the psychosocial consequences and distress and return patients to their normal state of health.

Expert consensus on the systemic treatment of atopic dermatitis in special populations

With the increasing number of options for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, clinicians need guidance on a practical approach to selecting a systemic agent for specific patient populations. We convened an expert panel consisting of 12 members to conduct a literature review and summarize relevant data related to six scenarios of clinical interest: comorbid asthma, ocular surface disease, history of cancer, past and ongoing infections of interest (including herpes simplex virus, herpes zoster, hepatitis B, and tuberculosis), pregnancy and lactation, and the elderly. We performed a literature search and examined each clinical scenario with respect to three major categories of available systemic agents: traditional systemics (azathioprine, cyclosporine A, methotrexate, and mycophenolate mofetil), Janus kinase inhibitors (abrocitinib, baricitinib, and upadacitinib), and biologics (dupilumab, lebrikizumab, and tralokinumab). The expert panel and steering committee met virtually to review the data and discuss the drafted consensus statements. A modified Delphi process was used to arrive at a set of final consensus statements related to the systemic treatment of AD in these specific patient populations. To provide practical guidance on the choice of systemic therapy for atopic dermatitis in these six topics of clinical interest, 25 expert consensus statements and a summary of the supporting data are presented herein.

Clinical Implications of Targeting the JAK-STAT Pathway in Psoriatic Disease: Emphasis on the TYK2 Pathway

Cytokines in the interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 axis are central to psoriasis pathogenesis. Janus kinase (JAK) signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) regulates intracellular signalling of several cytokines (including IL-12, 23, 22, 6, 17, and interferon (IFN)-γ) in the IL-23/IL-17 axis, and, as a result, has become a therapeutic target for psoriasis treatment. Although several JAK1-3 inhibitors, with varying degrees of selectivity, have been developed for immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, use in psoriasis is limited by a low therapeutic index as anticipated by signals from other disease indications. More selective inhibition of the JAK family is an area of interest. Specifically, selective tyrosine kinase (TYK)2 inhibition suppresses IL-23/IL-17 axis signalling, and at therapeutic doses, has a favorable safety profile compared to therapeutic doses of JAK1-3 inhibitors. Phase III efficacy and safety data for the selective allosteric TYK2-inhibitor, deucravacitinib, in adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis is promising. Furthermore, phase II clinical trials for ropsacitinib (PF-06826647), a selective TYK2 inhibitor, and brepocitinib (PF-06700841), a JAK1/TYK2 inhibitor, have also demonstrated efficacy and an acceptable safety profile in adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Other novel TYK2 allosteric inhibitors, NDI-034858 and ESK-001, are currently being investigated in adult patients with plaque psoriasis. This article reviews the details of the JAK-STAT pathway in psoriasis pathophysiology, the rationale for selective targeting of JAKs in the treatment of psoriasis, and provides clinical perspective on clinical trial data for JAK and TYK2 inhibitors.

Tralokinumab for Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis in Adults

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic, recurrent, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease. Targeted treatment options remain limited. Tralokinumab (Adtralza®) is a promising, new systemic therapy that inhibits interleukin-13. It was recently approved by Health Canada and the US FDA for the treatment of moderate-to-severe AD in adults and may be used alone or with topical corticosteroids. Herein, we review the efficacy and safety of tralokinumab in adults, as demonstrated in clinical trials.

Sustained Effectiveness of Secukinumab Across Different Body Regions in Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis from the PURE Registry

INTRODUCTION

The association between physician-reported and patient-reported outcomes in patients with psoriasis is not adequately explored. Trends in PASI scores across body regions and the descriptive correspondence between physician-reported PASI components and patient-reported Psoriasis Symptom Diary are reported here.

METHODS

PURE is a prospective observational study in adult patients from Canada and Latin America with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis. The study enrolled 2362 adult patients treated with secukinumab versus other approved therapies (1:1 ratio). The PASI total score, PASI sub-scores for erythema, thickening, and scaling, and PASI scores for each body region were evaluated and further correlated with disease impact using the Psoriasis Symptom Diary.

RESULTS

Secukinumab treatment showed early reduction in the PASI total score (mean ± SD) from 13.3 ± 9.02 at baseline to 2.3 ± 3.99 at 3 months; a similar trend was observed for PASI sub-scores for erythema (4.8 ± 3.21 to 0.9 ± 1.44), thickening (4.3 ± 3.00 to 0.7 ± 1.33) and scaling (4.2 ± 3.04 to 0.7 ± 1.30). The reduction in PASI total and sub-scores were sustained up to 36 months. Psoriasis Symptom Diary component scores related to redness, cracking, and scaling showed a similar reduction from baseline at 3 months that was also sustained up to 36 months. PASI regional scores for each body region showed reduction at 3 months with disease in the lower limbs being more treatment resistant. Safety profile of secukinumab was consistent with its established safety profile without any new or unexpected signals.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, an early and sustained resolution of erythema, thickening, and scaling was observed. Improvements were evident across all body regions, with the most persistent disease seen in the lower limbs. Trends in disease severity, as assessed by physicians using PASI, broadly reflected the trend in the comparable questions of the Psoriasis Symptom Diary assessed by patients.

Characterization of acne associated with upadacitinib treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: a post hoc integrated analysis of three phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Acne is the most frequent adverse event (AE) associated with upadacitinib treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD).

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the AE of acne associated with upadacitinib.

METHODS

This was a post hoc integrated analysis of three phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of upadacitinib, alone (NCT03569293 and NCT03607422) or in combination with topical corticosteroids (NCT03568318). Data included were from the 16-week placebo-controlled period.

RESULTS

Over 16 weeks, 84/857 (9.8%), 131/864 (15.2%), and 19/862 (2.2%) patients randomized to receive upadacitinib 15 mg, upadacitinib 30 mg, and placebo, respectively, experienced acne. All cases of acne, except 1, were mild/moderate in severity; 2 patients discontinued treatment due to moderate acne. Acne occurred at higher rates among younger, female, and non-White patients. Acne required no intervention in 40.5% and 46.6% of patients receiving upadacitinib 15 or 30 mg, respectively; most remaining cases were managed with topical antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, and/or retinoids. Acne also had no impact on patient-reported outcomes.

LIMITATIONS

This study was relatively short in duration and had a small patient population.

CONCLUSIONS

Acne associated with upadacitinib for AD treatment is usually mild/moderate in severity and managed with topical therapies or no intervention.

Halobetasol Propionate 0.01% Lotion for Plaque Psoriasis and Corticosteroid-Responsive Dermatoses

A novel topical corticosteroid, halobetasol propionate (HP) 0.01% lotion (Bryhali™), has recently been introduced for the treatment of plaque psoriasis and corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses in adults. Once daily application of HP 0.01% lotion is indicated for use up to 8 weeks. Treatment success for plaque psoriasis in the pivotal phase 3 clinical trials (defined as an Investigator Global Assessment [IGA] of clear/almost clear [IGA 0/1] with ≥2-grade improvement from baseline) occurred in over one-third of patients by week 8. Treatment-emergent adverse events were typically mild-to-moderate in intensity and usually limited to the application site(s). No treatment-related cases of skin atrophy have been reported from the studies. Counselling should be considered to optimize treatment outcomes.

Unmet Educational Needs and Clinical Practice Gaps in the Management of Generalized Pustular Psoriasis: Global Perspectives from the Front Line

INTRODUCTION

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare, potentially life-threatening, neutrophilic, autoinflammatory skin disease characterised by recurrent flares of generalised sterile pustules and associated systemic features. Inconsistent diagnostic criteria and a lack of approved therapies pose serious challenges to GPP management. Our objectives were to discuss the challenges encountered in the care of patients with GPP and identify healthcare provider (HCP) educational needs and clinical practice gaps in GPP management.

METHODS

On 24 July 2020, 13 dermatologists from 10 countries (Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, France, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, the UK and the USA) attended a workshop to share experiences in managing patients with GPP. Educational needs and clinical practice gaps grouped according to healthcare system level were discussed and ranked using interactive polling.

RESULTS

Lack of experience of GPP among HCPs was identified as an important individual HCP-level clinical practice gap. Limited understanding of the presentation and pathogenesis of GPP among non-specialists means misdiagnosis is common, delaying referral and treatment. In countries where patients may present to general practitioners or emergency department HCPs, GPP is often mistaken for an infection. Among dermatologists who can accurately diagnose GPP, limited knowledge of treatments may necessitate referral to a colleague with more experience in GPP. At the organisational level, important needs identified were educating emergency department HCPs to recognise GPP as an autoinflammatory disease and improving communication, cooperation and definitions of roles within multidisciplinary teams supporting patients with GPP. At the regulatory level, robust clinical trial data, clear and consistent treatment guidelines and approved therapies were identified as high priorities.

CONCLUSIONS

The educational imperative most consistently identified across the participating countries is for HCPs to understand that GPP can be life-threatening if appropriate treatment initiation is delayed, and to recognise when to refer patients to a colleague with more experience of GPP management.

Fixed Combination Halobetasol Propionate and Tazarotene Lotion for Plaque Psoriasis

A novel fixed combination lotion containing the super-potent corticosteroid halobetasol propionate 0.01% and retinoid tazarotene 0.045% (Duobrii™) has recently been introduced and indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. Studies have shown that there is synergy between the ingredients and that the product can be safely used intermittently for up to 1 year. Treatment success (i.e., Investigator Global Assessment [IGA] of clear/almost clear [IGA 0/1] and at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline) occurred in 58.8% of participants at some point in a 1-year clinical trial. Persistence of treatment success is common after treatment discontinuation. Most treatment-emergent adverse events are application site reactions, mild to moderate in intensity, and occur primarily during the first 12 weeks. Counselling should be considered to optimize treatment outcomes.

Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib vs Dupilumab in Adults With Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, recurrent, inflammatory skin disease with an unmet need for treatments that provide rapid and high levels of skin clearance and itch improvement.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety and efficacy of upadacitinib vs dupilumab in adults with moderate-to-severe AD.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Heads Up was a 24-week, head-to-head, phase 3b, multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, double-dummy, active-controlled clinical trial comparing the safety and efficacy of upadacitinib with dupilumab among 692 adults with moderate-to-severe AD who were candidates for systemic therapy. The study was conducted from February 21, 2019, to December 9, 2020, at 129 centers located in 22 countries across Europe, North and South America, Oceania, and the Asia-Pacific region. Efficacy analyses were conducted in the intent-to-treat population.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomized 1:1 and treated with oral upadacitinib, 30 mg once daily, or subcutaneous dupilumab, 300 mg every other week.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary end point was achievement of 75% improvement in the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI75) at week 16. Secondary end points were percentage change from baseline in the Worst Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) (weekly average), proportion of patients achieving EASI100 and EASI90 at week 16, percentage change from baseline in Worst Pruritus NRS at week 4, proportion of patients achieving EASI75 at week 2, percentage change from baseline in Worst Pruritus NRS (weekly average) at week 1, and Worst Pruritus NRS (weekly average) improvement of 4 points or more at week 16. End points at week 24 included EASI75, EASI90, EASI100, and improvement of 4 points or more in Worst Pruritus NRS from baseline (weekly average). Safety was assessed as treatment-emergent adverse events in all patients receiving 1 or more dose of either drug.

RESULTS

Of 924 patients screened, 348 (183 men [52.6%]; mean [SD] age, 36.6 [14.6] years) were randomized to receive upadacitinib and 344 were randomized to receive dupilumab (194 men [56.4%]; mean [SD] age, 36.9 [14.1] years); demographic and disease characteristics were balanced among treatment groups. At week 16, 247 patients receiving upadacitinib (71.0%) and 210 patients receiving dupilumab (61.1%) achieved EASI75 (P = .006). All ranked secondary end points also demonstrated the superiority of upadacitinib vs dupilumab, including improvement in Worst Pruritus NRS as early as week 1 (mean [SE], 31.4% [1.7%] vs 8.8% [1.8%]; P < .001), achievement of EASI75 as early as week 2 (152 [43.7%] vs 60 [17.4%]; P < .001), and achievement of EASI100 at week 16 (97 [27.9%] vs 26 [7.6%]; P < .001). Rates of serious infection, eczema herpeticum, herpes zoster, and laboratory-related adverse events were higher for patients who received upadacitinib, whereas rates of conjunctivitis and injection-site reactions were higher for patients who received dupilumab.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

During 16 weeks of treatment, upadacitinib demonstrated superior efficacy vs dupilumab in patients with moderate-to-severe AD, with no new safety signals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03738397.

Predictors of family impact of juvenile localized scleroderma

OBJECTIVE

To measure the impact juvenile localized scleroderma (jLS) has on family quality of life and to identify predictors of family impact in this population which may inform the development of tailored resources to enhance family functioning for patients with jLS.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients with jLS and their families was conducted. Five questionnaires were administered at each visit: Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Family Impact Module (PedsQL-FIM), PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales (PedsQL-Generic), PedsQL Rheumatology Module (PedsQL-RM), Child Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ), and Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI). Linear mixed models with random intercepts for each patient were used to find relationships between family impact scores and clinically relevant variables over time. Variables of interest included disease activity status, methotrexate use, jLS distribution, and scores for PedsQL-Generic and PedsQL-RM.

RESULTS

The median baseline PedsQL-FIM total score was 80.9 (IQR = 76.6-97.4). Adjusting for age and sex, the most significant predictors of family impact were PedsQL-Generic scores and four of five PedsQL-RM dimensions (all P < .001); methotrexate use had borderline significance (P = .06). Family impact increased more significantly over time in older patients. In multivariable modeling, PedsQL-Generic total score and jLS "other" distribution were significant for predicting an increased PedsQL-FIM score (P = .003 and P = .03, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

JLS has a moderate family impact. Family impact is predicted by patients' general and disease-specific health-related quality of life (HRQL) and their jLS subtype. There is a trend toward increased family impact with methotrexate treatment. This study emphasizes the importance of family-centered care in jLS.

Novel use of Autoinflammatory Diseases Activity Index (AIDAI) captures skin and extracutaneous features to help manage pediatric DITRA: A case report and a proposal for a modified disease activity index in autoinflammatory keratinization disorders

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a severe form of psoriasis, which is rare in pediatric and adult patients. It is characterized by sterile pustular lesions that appear on erythematous skin, associated with systemic features. A recent identification of mutations in the IL36RN gene in some GPP patients has led to a diagnosis of new autoinflammatory disease, interleukin-36-receptor antagonist deficiency (DITRA). DITRA represents an emerging group of autoinflammatory diseases with hyperkeratotic skin involvement, called autoinflammatory keratinization diseases (AIKD). DITRA diagnosis and management are challenging as neither DITRA-specific clinical assessment tools nor treatment trials exist. Autoinflammatory Diseases Activity Index (AIDAI) is a validated tool originally developed to evaluate disease activity and treatment response in other inherited autoinflammatory diseases with systemic and skin involvement. We report the first use of AIDAI in a pediatric DITRA patient with the following goals: (a) to describe the contribution of AIDAI to our patient's management; (b) to identify potential limitations of AIDAI in DITRA; (c) to review literature for current psoriasis assessment tools; and (d) to propose a preliminary DITRA/AIKD disease activity index (DITRA/AIDAI) to be validated in future studies.

Approach to the Assessment and Management of Pediatric Patients With Atopic Dermatitis: A Consensus Document. Section IV: Consensus Statements on the Assessment and Management of Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis

This document is intended to provide practical guidance to physicians treating pediatric atopic dermatitis (AD), especially dermatologists, pediatricians, allergists, and other health-care professionals. The recommendations contained here were formalized based on a consensus of 12 Canadian pediatric dermatologists, dermatologists, pediatricians, and pediatric allergists with extensive experience managing AD in the pediatric population. A modified Delphi process was adopted with iterative voting on a 5-point Likert scale, with a prespecified agreement cutoff of 75%. Topic areas addressed in the 17 consensus statements reflect areas of practical management, including counselling, assessment, comorbidity management, and therapy.

Approach to the Assessment and Management of Pediatric Patients With Atopic Dermatitis: A Consensus Document. Section III: Treatment Options for Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis

Because atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing disease, treatment requires the use of both active therapy to control flares and preventative maintenance therapy to promote integrity of the skin barrier. In this third of four sections, important clinical considerations for the treatment of pediatric AD are reviewed. Emerging therapies in development for pediatric AD are introduced.

Pediatric leukemia cutis: A case series

BACKGROUND

Pediatric leukemia cutis (LC) is often difficult to diagnose due to similarity in appearance to other dermatologic diseases. Several case reports and smaller case series have been published in the medical literature, but studies on larger cohorts of children with LC are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to better characterize the clinical features, course, and prognosis of LC in the pediatric population.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective case series of 31 patients diagnosed with LC at Boston Children's Hospital and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

RESULTS

The number and morphology of LC lesions varied among patients, with the head and lower extremities being the most common sites of involvement. Leukemia cutis presented concomitantly with systemic leukemia in the majority of cases. Most cases of LC arose during initial leukemia episodes, rather than with relapsed leukemia. Acute myeloid leukemia was the subtype most frequently associated with LC, followed by acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Diagnosis altered treatment timing and therapeutic decisions.

CONCLUSION

Children most often present concomitantly with LC and systemic leukemia. Since the morphology and distribution of LC varies, physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for this diagnosis, as the presence of LC may change the management of systemic leukemia.