Biologicals in the management of rheumatodermatologic conditions and beyond

Abstract

Biologicals are synthesized from living cells by biotechnology methods and typically include monoclonal antibodies and fusion proteins targeted against pathogenic cytokines, B or T cells, or its receptors. A biosimilar is a cheaper, manufactured product which is almost the same as biological. Appropriate patient selection is the key consideration before starting biologicals. Screening for tuberculosis is a must, except in case of rituximab. Tumor-necrosis-factor alpha inhibitors, interleukin (IL)-17A antagonists, anti-CD6 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), and anti-IL-6 mAbs are discussed here for various indications.

Keywords

• autoimmune
• biological
• connective tissue disease
• rheumatodermatological