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COVID-19 and Biologics — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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ModerateInflammatory DermatosesCOVID-19 and BiologicsSCE Dermatology

A 55-year-old man with psoriasis wants to know about psoriasis and COVID-19 risk. What have studies shown about biologics and COVID-19 outcomes in psoriasis?

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Correct answer: D — Most studies show that biologic therapy for psoriasis does NOT significantly increase the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes; systemic corticosteroids and Methotrexate may carry more risk

Large registry studies (including PsoProtect, BADBIR, and international registries) demonstrated that most biologic therapies for psoriasis do NOT significantly increase the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes (hospitalisation, ICU, death). In contrast, systemic corticosteroid use and possibly Methotrexate were associated with increased risk. This evidence supported BAD guidance that biologic therapy should be continued during the pandemic (the risk of psoriasis flare from stopping outweighed the marginal COVID risk). Ciclosporin was flagged for extra caution due to broader immunosuppression. COVID-19 vaccination response may be modestly blunted by some biologics (particularly Methotrexate), but adequate protection is achieved.

Reference: BAD COVID-19 Psoriasis Guidance; PsoProtect; BADBIR