Journal of IMIDs (Apr 2022)

Biological treatment, vaccines, and viral infections in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases

  • Beatriz Butrón-Bris,
  • Aurora Fernández-Galván,
  • Mar Llamas-Velasco

DOI
https://doi.org/10.24875/JIMIDS.M21000015
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 2, no. 2

Abstract

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An increased risk of infections has been observed in dermatological patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases under immunosuppressive treatments. Some of these treatments (Interleukin [IL]-23 and IL-17 inhibitors) present a better and safer profile than others (methotrexate, cyclosporine or anti-tumor necrosis factor). The appearance of the coronavirus disease- 19 (COVID-19) pandemic has raised serious doubts about their continuation, because they may increase the susceptibility to infections or even worsen the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection itself. Therefore, preventive measures, such as adequate vaccination schedules, are crucial to properly manage these patients. In this review, we discuss the evidence on immunosuppressive treatment in different autoimmune skin diseases, their risk of infections, preventive measures associated to the vaccination status and their impact on patients during COVID-19 infection. Articles reviewed were obtained through searches of relevant databases (PUBMED, MEDLINE, ETHERIA).

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