Long-term safety of adalimumab for patients with moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa

Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic debilitating inflammatory skin disorder that affects regions rich in apocrine glands. Although the etiology of HS is not clear, inflammatory cytokines, like tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, participate in pathogenesis. Adalimumab (ADA), a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody that selectively targets TNF alpha, is the only EMA/FDA-approved biologic agent available for the therapy of moderate-to-severe HS. Areas covered: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to present existing studies with an emphasis on the safety profile of ADA for the treatment of moderate-to-severe HS. ADA is prescribed for more than 15 years for varied indications and has improved the therapeutic outcomes of many diseases. Clinical trials and real-life safety data from ADA administration in HS were presented, with particular attention to special populations, such as children, elderly, and pregnant women. Expert opinion: Existing data advise for limited safety concerns with long-term ADA treatment provided that patients are thoroughly screened for infections, latent tuberculosis, and history of malignancy before the start of treatment.