The safety of immunosuppressants in the treatment of psoriasis patients: is there concern regarding those with familial lymphoproliferative disease?

Immunosuppressant drugs may increase the risk of lymphoproliferative disease (LPD) states, and additionally, the diagnosis of psoriasis may predispose to lymphoma. It is important to educate patients regarding the side effects of any treatment regimen. A positive family history of LPD disease may increase the risk of personal acquisition of LPD disease in those patients with psoriasis additionally making use of immunosuppressant therapy, such as the biologics. It is currently recommended to employ caution in those being treated with biologics who carry a high risk of developing malignancy. Those with a positive family history may fit into this category.