Cutaneous Autoimmune Phenomena of the Anti-TNFa Biosimilars. Casebased Review

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis (Pso) is a common chronic inflammatory disease affecting the skin, both sexes, and all ages. It can be associated with other chronic inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders and certain drugs, including tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) antagonists. Case Presentation: A 64-year-old man with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis (RA) refractory to leflunomide and prednisone was treated with SB-4 (Benepali), an etanercept biosimilar 50mg/week subcutaneously. He responded well to the treatment, but a year later, he developed erythematous skin eruptions affecting mainly in the palms of both hands. Skin biopsy showed a picture compatible with Pso. SB-4 was discontinued, and the skin lesions disappeared with the addition of topical steroid therapy. This is the only case of psoriatic skin lesions associated with SB-4 treatment. Conclusion: Thus, we review and discuss the relevant literature of Pso cases related to SB-4 and other anti-TNFα biosimilars. Rheumatologists dealing with patients on anti-TNFα biosimilars should be aware of and recognize these complications.