25 Aug How Many Screening Tests Are Needed For Psoriasis Patients on Biologics?
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
William W. Huang, MD, MPH
Assistant Professor and Program Director
Wake Forest School of Medicine
Department of Dermatology
Winston-Salem, NC 27104
Medical Research: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Dr. Huang: This particular study was an update of a previous study our group had published in 2008 (JAAD, 6/08). As the use of biologics in dermatology has increased dramatically in recent years, we wanted to evaluate the evidence for the screening and monitoring tests that are routinely performed for patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis on biologic agents.
We found that current guidelines for screening and monitoring tests varied among various national organizations (Table 1) including the American Academy of Dermatology, Japanese Dermatology Association, European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology, and the British Association of Dermatologists. Using evidence grading based on methods developed by the US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF), we found that the evidence was strongest (Grade B) for tuberculosis screening. High level evidence was in general lacking for other routine screening and monitoring tests except in select populations (Table 2, Table 3).
Medical Research: What should clinicians and patients take away from your report?
Dr. Huang: In general, biologics are effective and safe treatment options for patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis who are appropriate candidates for such therapy. The findings of this study may not necessarily be true for patients on biologics for other medical conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Currently the evidence is strongest for tuberculosis screening for patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis who plan to start a biologic. Other screening and monitoring tests should be based on the provider’s assessment of a patient’s individual risk.
Medical Research: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?
Dr. Huang: As public and private insurance carriers and other managed care organizations are looking more and more at cost-effective care, additional studies are needed to establish the evidence and need for screening and monitoring tests for other treatments and medical conditions.
Citation:
J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015 Sep;73(3):420-428.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2015.06.004. Epub 2015 Jul 14.
To test or not to test? An updated evidence-based assessment of the value of screening and monitoring tests when using systemic biologic agents to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Ahn CS1, Dothard EH1, Garner ML2, Feldman SR3, Huang WW4.
[wysija_form id=”5″]
MedicalResearch.com is not a forum for the exchange of personal medical information, advice or the promotion of self-destructive behavior (e.g., eating disorders, suicide). While you may freely discuss your troubles, you should not look to the Website for information or advice on such topics. Instead, we recommend that you talk in person with a trusted medical professional.
The information on MedicalResearch.com is provided for educational purposes only, and is in no way intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any medical or other condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health and ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. In addition to all other limitations and disclaimers in this agreement, service provider and its third party providers disclaim any liability or loss in connection with the content provided on this website.
William W. Huang, MD, MPH (2015). How Many Screening Tests Are Needed For Psoriasis Patients on Biologics?
Last Updated on August 25, 2015 by Marie Benz MD FAAD