Managing Pediatric Patients with Psoriasis

Childhood-onset psoriasis affects approximately one-third of the psoriatic population. Among many potential treatments of childhood psoriasis, biological agents are emerging as a valuable option in the management of this disease. InEurope, etanercept has recently been approved for children aged 8 years and over. Data froma well-designed clinical trial indicate that in children, etanercept effectively reduces psoriasis symptoms, with beneficial effects evident as early as 4 weeks after the initiation of treatment. Etanercept iswell tolerated; adverse effects are typically mild to moderate in severity. Early data from other biological agents are promising.