Advances in the management of psoriasis: monoclonal antibody therapies

Psoriasis is a common skin disorder characterized by erythematous, scaling plaques. Until recently, therapies for this disease have been aimed at reducing keratinocyte proliferation. We have learned that psoriasis is not primarily a disorder of keratinocyte hyperproliferation, but is an inflammatory disease. This knowledge, especially our current understanding of the role of activated T cells in psoriasis, has led to new therapeutic options and new areas of research. Immunosuppressive agents such as cyclosporine have proven very useful in the treatment of psoriasis, but their use is limited by toxicity. Monoclonal antibodies directed against key components of the inflammatory process have been studied in an attempt to produce safer, more selective immunosuppressive agents. This review summarizes much of the available literature describing the use of monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of psoriasis.