Treatment of patients with plaque psoriasis with secukinumab in a real-life setting: a 52-week, multicenter, retrospective study in Spain

Background: The efficacy and safety of secukinumab in patients with plaque psoriasis (PsO) have been demonstrated in randomized clinical trials (RCTs). However, data regarding its efficacy and safety in real-life settings are scarce. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of secukinumab in clinical practice in patients with PsO attending 10 dermatology centers in Spain. Methods: Data from 136 patients consecutively treated with secukinumab for at least 52 weeks were collected in a retrospective observational study. Results: After 52 weeks of treatment, 69% and 46% of patients achieved a PASI-75, PASI-90, respectively. PASI-score <= 5 was achieved in 83% of patients, PASI-score <= 3 in 73% and PASI-score <= 1 in 47%. Response rates were found significantly lower in patients with obesity and non-naive to biologics (p < .05). The most common adverse event (AE) was candidiasis (5/136). Thirty-six patients (26.5%) discontinued treatment by week 52 due to lack or loss of response (n = 29), AEs (n = 2) or other causes (n = 5). Conclusion: These findings complement the efficacy and safety profiles of secukinumab in PsO outlined in RCTs. The effectiveness in clinical practice may be lower in patients with a BMI >= 30 and those previously treated with other biologic agents.