An Evidence-Based Review of Systemic Therapies for Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis in the Pediatric Population
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory condition of the skin that affects 2-3% of the general population. Onset during childhood and adolescence occurs in up to one-third of cases. The plaque subtype is most common.
Moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis can have a significant impact on quality of life for affected pediatric patients and their adult caregivers. As a result, systemic therapy is often required. However, selecting the right treatment in this special population can be a challenge, given the paucity of data, standardized international guidelines, and approved options.
The aim of this article is to review the available evidence for systemic therapies used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in pediatric patients. In-depth discussion will be limited to the most rigorous studies only.
References
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