ABSTRACT
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there has been considerable discussion regarding the use of biologics in patients with inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and atopic dermatitis. This article discusses clinical trial data, real-world evidence, and guidelines and recommendations for biologics that inhibit tumor necrosis factor, interleukin (IL)-12/23, IL-17, IL-23, and IL-4/13 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Across these inflammatory skin conditions, existing data generally suggest that biologics do not seem to increase the risk of COVID-19 infection or worsen COVID-19 outcomes. The impact of biologics on COVID-19 is an area of active exploration.
Subject(s)
Biological Products/therapeutic use , COVID-19 Drug Treatment , Skin Diseases/drug therapy , Skin Diseases/etiology , COVID-19/complications , Dermatitis, Atopic/drug therapy , HumansABSTRACT
Owing to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and emerging data regarding immunosuppressant therapies for inflammatory cutaneous diseases, dermatologists are being encouraged to reevaluate their patients' treatment regimens to minimize any potential risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This article includes an overview of the up-to-date international and U.S. treatment guidelines for psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and acne/rosacea; it provides tables summarizing these resources to assist providers and patients in remaining updated regarding recommended treatment modifications during the pandemic (See Tables 1-4).
Subject(s)
Betacoronavirus , Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology , Dermatitis, Atopic/drug therapy , Hidradenitis Suppurativa/drug therapy , Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology , Psoriasis/drug therapy , Rosacea/drug therapy , Biological Products/therapeutic use , COVID-19 , Coronavirus Infections/complications , Coronavirus Infections/transmission , Humans , Immunosuppressive Agents , Internationality , Pandemics , Pneumonia, Viral/complications , Pneumonia, Viral/transmission , SARS-CoV-2 , United StatesABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Many dermatologists have experienced significant changes to their practices due to the COVID-19 pandemic. OBJECTIVE: It is vital to recognize how the pandemic has affected dermatology practices and identify methods to maximize clinical efficiency while maintaining patient safety. METHODS: Private practice dermatologists in metropolitan areas were interviewed regarding various issues, including patient volume, types of visits or procedures being performed, screening for COVID-19, and operational modifications. RESULTS: On average, there was a 65.2% decrease in patient volume during the initial surge of the COVID-19 outbreak, which was improved to a 15.5% decrease in July 2020. Despite this reduction in patient volume, the proportion of acute dermatologic issues, biopsies performed, and skin cancer concerns were all increased compared to pre-COVID. All of the dermatologists reported notable changes in regards to scheduling, staff, operations, and workplaces. LIMITATIONS: Interview participants were limited to metropolitan dermatologists mainly within the California region. CONCLUSION: Improving patient communication, implementing protocols to facilitate social distancing, and utilizing teledermatology were reported to be essential to optimizing efficiency and safety. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, it is important that dermatologists identify specific ways to practice efficiently and effectively, while mitigating the spread of the virus.