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Tag: Psoriasis

  • The FDA Just Approved a Powerful Biologic for Children as Young as 6 with Severe Psoriasis or Psoriatic Arthritis

    The FDA Just Approved a Powerful Biologic for Children as Young as 6 with Severe Psoriasis or Psoriatic Arthritis

    Children as young as 6 years old with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis or active psoriatic arthritis now have access to one of the most effective biologics in dermatology and rheumatology, following an FDA approval announced June 26, 2026.

    AbbVie announced that the FDA has approved risankizumab (Skyrizi) for children 6 years of age and older with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy, and for active psoriatic arthritis in the same age group. A new 55 mg prefilled syringe was simultaneously approved to support weight-based dosing for patients weighing less than 40 kg, filling a critical gap in pediatric treatment access.

    Risankizumab is now the first and only interleukin-23 (IL-23) inhibitor approved in the United States for pediatric patients 6 years of age and older who weigh less than 40 kg with either plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.

    Why This Matters

    According to Drug Topics, approximately 30 percent of people who develop psoriasis first experience symptoms before age 18. For these patients, severe psoriatic disease can mean painful, visible skin lesions that affect school participation, social development, and mental health in addition to causing physical discomfort.

    Psoriatic arthritis in children — called juvenile psoriatic arthritis or psoriatic juvenile idiopathic arthritis — causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness that can impair a child’s ability to walk, write, or participate in normal childhood activities. Before biologics in this class were available for children, treatment options were more limited, and some children were treated off-label with adult formulations in adult doses, which is not ideal from a pharmacokinetic standpoint.

    “Plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can affect much more than skin and joints — these conditions can shape daily life and disrupt important childhood experiences,” said Roopal Thakkar, MD, executive vice president of research and development at AbbVie.

    What We Know So Far

    Risankizumab is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that selectively blocks the p19 subunit of IL-23, a cytokine that drives the inflammatory cascade responsible for the skin plaques and joint inflammation in psoriatic disease. It was first approved for adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in 2019 and has since received approvals for adult psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.

    The pediatric approval is supported by data from the Phase 3 OptIMMize clinical trial program, which enrolled children and adolescents aged 6 through 17. Key findings from the trial:

    In adolescents aged 12 to 17: At week 16, 85.2 percent of risankizumab-treated patients achieved PASI75 (75% reduction in psoriasis severity), comparable to ustekinumab (85.7%). However, PASI100 (complete clearance) favored risankizumab at 40.7% versus 17.9% for ustekinumab.

    In children aged 6 to 11: Response rates at week 16 were high: PASI75 in 86.7%, PASI90 in 76.7%, and PASI100 (complete clearance) in 43.3%. Nearly all patients (90.0%) achieved a physician global assessment score of clear or almost clear.

    Durability: In adolescents who responded and continued treatment through week 52, approximately 95% maintained clear or almost clear skin — a strong durability finding for this age group.

    The safety profile in pediatric patients was consistent with the established adult safety profile, according to AbbVie and Contemporary Pediatrics.

    Who Qualifies for Skyrizi — Children and Dosing

    Age: 6 years and older

    Conditions: Moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy; OR active psoriatic arthritis

    Dosing by weight:

    • Children weighing less than 40 kg: 55 mg subcutaneous injection (new weight-based formulation)
    • Children weighing 40 kg or more: 150 mg subcutaneous injection (same as adult dosing)

    Administration schedule: An initial dose, followed by a dose 4 weeks later, then maintenance dosing every 12 weeks thereafter — the same schedule used in adults.

    The psoriatic arthritis approval for children 6 and older is supported by the OptIMMize psoriasis data plus population pharmacokinetic modeling from well-controlled adult PsA studies.

    What Doctors and Experts Say

    Amy S. Paller, MD, chair of dermatology and professor of pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a lead OptIMMize study investigator, called the approval significant: “These clinical responses, combined with weight-based dosing for younger patients, may help physicians better support a broad range of children living with these conditions.”

    Medscape’s analysis noted that this is the first IL-23 inhibitor to reach the under-40 kg pediatric population, distinguishing Skyrizi from other biologics in this class that have not yet reached this weight category in children.

    What the Evidence Shows — and What It Does Not

    MedicalDaily Evidence Check

    • Study type: Phase 3 randomized controlled trial (OptIMMize psoriasis program) — active-controlled in adolescents; single-arm open-label in children 6 to 11
    • Participants: Children and adolescents aged 6–17 with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis; PsA approval additionally supported by adult data plus PK modeling
    • Published in: Journal of Investigative Dermatology (conference data); FDA review completed June 26, 2026
    • What it found: High rates of PASI75, PASI90, and PASI100 at week 16 with durable responses through week 52
    • Key limitation: The psoriatic arthritis approval for children is partially supported by adult study data extrapolation through PK modeling rather than a dedicated pediatric PsA efficacy trial
    • Safety limitation noted: Detailed pediatric adverse event rates and serious adverse event rates were not publicly released in the press announcement

    What You Can Do Now

    • If your child has moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis that has not been adequately controlled with topical therapies, ask your pediatric dermatologist or pediatric rheumatologist about risankizumab at your next appointment.
    • Before starting any biologic, standard screening includes tuberculosis testing, hepatitis B testing, and a review of current infections — discuss these with your child’s specialist.
    • The European Commission approved risankizumab for pediatric plaque psoriasis (ages 6 and up) on June 23, 2026 — just days before the U.S. approval — making this a global regulatory milestone for pediatric psoriatic disease.

    Cost and Access: What Patients Should Know

    Skyrizi is a biologic specialty medication. Insurance coverage and prior authorization requirements vary by plan. AbbVie has a patient support program — myAbbVie Assist — for eligible patients who need help with access or cost. Contact your specialty pharmacy or AbbVie’s patient support team for current assistance program details.

    The Bottom Line

    Skyrizi (risankizumab) is now FDA-approved for children 6 and older with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis or active psoriatic arthritis — making it the first and only IL-23 inhibitor available for the under-40 kg pediatric population in the United States. Clinical trial data showed high rates of complete skin clearance in both adolescents and younger children, with durable responses through a year of treatment. Families of children with severe psoriatic disease should ask their pediatric specialist whether risankizumab is appropriate.

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  • How to Recognize Eczema, Psoriasis, and More

    How to Recognize Eczema, Psoriasis, and More

    Understanding what a skin rash is communicating can be key to managing your skin health effectively. Skin rashes are common conditions that can range from mild irritations to symptoms of serious underlying health issues. This article explores the most frequent skin rash causes, their types, symptoms, and treatments, focusing on conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. By understanding these elements, you can better recognize when to seek medical advice and how to care for your skin proactively.

    What Are the Most Common Skin Rash Types?

    Skin rashes manifest in various forms, each with unique characteristics and causes. Recognizing these different types helps in understanding their origins and appropriate responses.

    • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Eczema is a prevalent chronic skin condition characterized by red, inflamed, itchy patches. It often appears on the hands, face, and inside elbows or knees. Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by allergens, irritants, stress, or weather changes.
    • Psoriasis: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to multiply rapidly, leading to thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry patches. These patches commonly appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Psoriasis is often chronic and can be triggered by infections, stress, or injury to the skin.
    • Contact Dermatitis: This rash results from direct skin contact with allergens or irritants such as detergents, poison ivy, or certain metals. It typically causes red, itchy, and sometimes blistered areas at the site of contact.
    • Hives (Urticaria): Hives are raised, itchy welts that can appear suddenly due to allergic reactions to foods, medications, or insect stings. They usually fade within 24 hours but may reappear frequently in chronic cases.
    • Fungal Infections: Rashes caused by fungal infections, like ringworm or athlete’s foot, present with ring-shaped red patches or scaling. These infections typically thrive in warm, moist environments.

    What Causes Skin Rashes?

    Skin rash causes are diverse and depend on the type of rash, according to the National Institutes of Health. Allergic reactions, infections, immune system disorders, and environmental factors all play roles.

    • Allergic Reactions: Contact with allergens leads to immune responses causing redness, swelling, and itchiness.
    • Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections can cause rashes as the body fights pathogens.
    • Autoimmune Conditions: Disorders like psoriasis occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells.
    • Environmental Triggers: Excessive heat, cold, humidity, or irritants like soaps and chemicals may provoke rashes.

    Both eczema and psoriasis are influenced by genetic predisposition and environmental triggers, requiring tailored management strategies.

    How to Identify Eczema and Its Symptoms

    Eczema is one of the most common chronic skin conditions, often starting in childhood but affecting people of all ages. The rash usually appears as dry, scaly, itchy patches on the skin. Common eczema locations include the inside of elbows, behind the knees, face, and hands.

    Symptoms to watch for:

    • Intense itching
    • Red to brownish-gray patches
    • Small, raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
    • Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin in chronic cases

    Triggers for eczema flare-ups include stress, allergens (like pollen or pet dander), irritants (such as soaps and detergents), and temperature changes. Identifying and avoiding these triggers is essential in managing eczema.

    How Is Psoriasis Different From Other Skin Rashes?

    Psoriasis is immune-mediated and differs notably in appearance and cause, according to Harvard Health. It accelerates skin cell production, leading to plaque formation that appears silvery and thick with defined edges.

    Key features that distinguish psoriasis include:

    • Patches covered with silvery scales
    • Frequently occurring on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back
    • Possible nail changes such as pitting or discoloration
    • May be accompanied by joint pain in psoriatic arthritis

    Triggers include infections, stress, smoking, alcohol, and certain medications. Unlike eczema, psoriasis is chronic and often requires long-term treatment to control flare-ups.

    When Should You See a Doctor for a Skin Rash?

    Most skin rashes are harmless and resolve on their own or with simple treatment. However, certain signs indicate the need for professional evaluation:

    • Rash lasting more than two weeks without improvement
    • Spread of rash despite home treatment
    • Rash accompanied by fever, pain, or swelling
    • Blistering, oozing, or signs of infection
    • Difficulty breathing or swallowing (indicating a severe allergic reaction)

    Early diagnosis can ensure proper treatment, particularly for chronic conditions like eczema and psoriasis that may worsen if untreated.

    Can Stress Cause Skin Rashes?

    Stress is a well-known trigger for both eczema and psoriasis. It can exacerbate inflammation and weaken the skin’s ability to repair itself, leading to flare-ups and prolonged healing times. Managing stress through mindfulness, exercise, or therapy can be an important part of rash management.

    How Are Skin Rashes Treated?

    Treatment depends on the specific rash type and its severity.

    • Eczema: Moisturizers (emollients) to keep skin hydrated, topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and avoiding known triggers are mainstays. In severe cases, prescription medications or phototherapy may be used.
    • Psoriasis: Topical treatments like corticosteroids and vitamin D analogs, systemic medications, and biologics target the immune response. Phototherapy is also effective for moderate to severe cases.
    • Contact Dermatitis: Identifying and avoiding the irritant, using topical steroids, and soothing skin with cool compresses are effective.
    • Fungal Infections: Antifungal creams or oral medications clear infection.
    • Hives: Antihistamines can relieve symptoms.

    Key Tips to Prevent Skin Rashes

    Preventing skin rashes involves protecting the skin from irritants and maintaining its natural barrier function:

    • Keep skin clean and moisturized to prevent dryness
    • Avoid harsh soaps or detergents that strip the skin
    • Wear protective clothing when exposed to potential allergens or irritants
    • Manage stress through lifestyle interventions
    • Identify and steer clear of personal rash triggers

    For those with eczema or psoriasis, adhering to treatment plans and regular skin care routines can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

    Understanding the different skin rash types and their causes can empower individuals to respond appropriately and seek timely treatment. Conditions like eczema and psoriasis, while chronic, are manageable with proper care. Recognizing what a rash is trying to tell you offers a valuable path toward healthier skin and improved well-being.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Can diet influence the severity of skin rashes like eczema or psoriasis?

    Certain foods may trigger or worsen skin inflammation in some people with eczema or psoriasis. While there’s no universal “rash diet,” avoiding known allergens or inflammatory foods like dairy, gluten, or processed sugars might help reduce flare-ups. Consultation with a healthcare provider or dietitian can guide personalized dietary adjustments.

    2. How do climate and seasonal changes affect skin rash conditions?

    Cold, dry weather often worsens eczema by drying out the skin, while hot, humid conditions may increase sweating and irritation. Psoriasis symptoms can also fluctuate with seasons, sometimes improving in sunlight but worsening in winter. Proper skin care routines adjusted for climate can help manage these effects.

    3. Are there natural or home remedies effective for managing mild skin rashes?

    Some natural remedies like oatmeal baths, aloe vera, and coconut oil can soothe irritated skin and reduce mild rash symptoms. However, these should be used cautiously and not replace medical treatments, especially for chronic conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

    4. Can medications cause skin rashes, and how should they be handled?

    Yes, certain medications can provoke allergic skin reactions or rashes as side effects. If a rash develops after starting a new medication, it is important to contact a healthcare provider promptly to assess whether the medication should be adjusted or discontinued.



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  • Researchers Say They May Trigger Psoriasis

    Researchers Say They May Trigger Psoriasis

    Here’s another reason to put that bag of processed snacks aside. Ultra-processed foods, already linked to heart problems and metabolic disorders, may also trigger psoriasis, according to new research.

    Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the skin, causing inflamed, red, raised patches that often develop into silvery scales, typically on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.

    Ultra-processing involves the use of several additives, salts, oils, preservatives, and other ingredients to the food to improve its shelf life, appearance, and taste. A few examples of ultra-processed food are frozen meals, processed meats, soft drinks, sweetened breakfasts, packaged chips, cakes, pretzels, and cookies.

    Earlier studies have shown that frequent consumption of ultra-processed food raises the risk of insomnia, heart disease, cancer, and premature death. It is also linked to elevated risk of obesity and inflammatory bowel disease.

    While common known triggers of psoriasis include stress, certain medications, skin injuries, strep infections, smoking, and alcohol use, the latest study explored the connection between ultra-processed food consumption and psoriasis incidence.

    To establish the link, a research team led by Dr. Emilie Sbidian, a dermatologist at Henri-Mondor Hospital in Créteil, France, examined data from over 18,500 individuals in a health database. Among this cohort, 1,825 had psoriasis, with 802 cases considered “active.” The participant’s food intake, particularly the consumption of ultra-processed food items was recorded using questionnaires.

    Analysis revealed a significant finding: among those with active psoriasis, 36% were in the highest third of daily ultra-processed food intake when compared to individuals who had never experienced psoriasis. The association remained significant even after adjusting for factors such as age, alcohol intake, body mass index, and other underlying health conditions.

    “Results of this study showed an association between high ultra-processed food intake and active psoriasis status,” researchers concluded.

    However, the researchers caution that the findings are based on an observational study, which only demonstrates a correlation and cannot establish a definitive cause-and-effect relationship between ultra-processed food consumption and psoriasis.

    “More large-scale studies are needed to investigate the role of [ultra-processed food] intake in psoriasis onset,” the researchers wrote.

    Since the study population consisted of a relatively healthier cohort compared to the general French population, the findings may not be fully representative. Also, another limitation of the study is the potential misclassification of psoriasis, as it relied on self-reported data.

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