Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and Biologic Therapy for Psoriasis: Successful Recovery in Two Patients After Infection with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) causing COVID-19 was first reported in late December 2019. Many patients with psoriasis on biologic therapy have asked their medical providers about the effect of biologics on COVID-19. However, it is currently unknown how biologic therapy for psoriasis might impact patients with psoriasis and COVID-19.

Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and Biologic Therapy in Psoriasis: Infection Risk and Patient Counseling in Uncertain Times.

With the emergence of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) viral pandemic, there is uncertainty whether biologic agents for psoriasis may place patients at a higher risk for infection or more severe disease course. This commentary offers patient counseling recommendations based on the current available evidence. While there are currently no specific data for psoriasis biologics and COVID-19, data are presented here from phase III clinical trials of psoriasis biologics on rates of upper respiratory infection, influenza, and serious infection.

Halobetasol propionate for the management of psoriasis.

The use of superpotent topical corticosteroids (TCSs) for the treatment of psoriasis is widely practiced, especially for expedient lesion resolution. However, their continued use in managing this chronic condition is limited because of labelling restrictions, concerns of side effects, and a paucity of data to support long-term management strategies. Halobetasol propionate (HP) is an effective short-term superpotent TCS.

Beyond the Booth: Excimer Laser for Cutaneous Conditions.

The excimer laser has emerged as an efficacious treatment modality for many dermatologic diseases. The excimer laser is an alternative to standard narrowband ultraviolet B (NBUVB) phototherapy treatment in patients with limited disease. In comparison to standard NBUVB, the excimer laser requires fewer treatment sessions, has reduced treatment duration, requires a lower cumulative UVB dose, and limits UVB exposure to lesional skin.