Psoriasis in the mature patient - therapeutic approach in the era of biologics

Publication date: Available online 3 October 2017
Source:Clinics in Dermatology
Author(s): Kresimir Kostovic, Kristina Zuzul, Romana Ceovic, Zrinka Bukvic Mokos
Management of psoriasis in elderly patients may be challenging due to a small number of studies investigating this specific population. When treating a mature patient, special consideration should be given to multiple comorbidities, progressive functional impairment of several organs, immunosenescence, possible adverse effects, and polypharmacy. Due to the chronic nature of the disease and continuing rise in life expectancy, the prevalence of psoriasis among elderly is also expected to rise. Because many different therapies are available for treatment of psoriasis, we have reviewed those that have been investigated in the aging population. Although the biologics have revolutionized the therapy of psoriasis due to targeted mechanism of action, high efficacy and low rate of adverse events, studies on the elderly population with psoriasis are scarce. Further clinical research and development of specific treatment guidelines in geriatric population are needed in order to optimize the therapeutic approach in this population.