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Psoriasis — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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HardDermatopharmacologyPsoriasisSCE Dermatology

A 40-year-old woman with psoriasis is considering Brodalumab. What distinguishes Brodalumab from other IL-17 pathway inhibitors?

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Correct answer: DIt targets the IL-17 receptor A (IL-17RA) rather than the cytokine itself

Brodalumab is unique among IL-17 pathway inhibitors as it targets the IL-17 receptor A (IL-17RA) subunit rather than the IL-17 cytokines themselves. By blocking the receptor, Brodalumab inhibits signalling from IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-17A/F heterodimer, IL-17C, and IL-17E — providing broader IL-17 pathway blockade. Secukinumab and Ixekizumab target IL-17A; Bimekizumab targets IL-17A and IL-17F. Brodalumab carries a black box warning for suicidal ideation and behaviour (based on clinical trial data), requiring REMS programme participation in the US. It has high PASI 100 rates in clinical trials.

Reference: NICE TA511 2018 Brodalumab; BAD 2020 Biologic Guidelines