PHOENIX 1 is a phase 3 study evaluating the efficacy and safety of ustekinumab (Centocor), a fully human interleukin-12/23p40 monoclonal antibody, in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis. The study randomized 766 patients to receive ustekinumab 45 mg, ustekinumab 90 mg or placebo at weeks zero and four. Data from 52 weeks and 76 weeks show high proportions of patients are maintaining PASI 75 responses with maintenance injections every 12 weeks.

Two biologic agents under investigation show promise in the treatment of psoriasis by targeting IL-12 and -23, says an expert.

The results of a three-year study with efalizumab show that patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis are able to maintain high PASI scores, reflecting long-term hope for disease-free intervals.

The phase 3 EXPRESS II trial data show infliximab (Remicade, Centocor) maintenance treatment with regularly administered infusions is associated with better psoriasis control and fewer infusion reactions than intermittent, as-needed dosing. A composite analysis of infliximab phase 2 and 3 study data shows consistently dramatic improvements across all four body regions evaluated in the studies.

Seven newly identified sites of common DNA variations increase the risk for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The whole genome association study of more than 300,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was published in the March issue of PLoS Genetics. The goal was to identify new genes and new pathways for drug development.

Acne, eczema, psoriasis, are all skin conditions that can cause discomfort and embarrassment. But for many patients, the worst part of these and a number of other skin ailments may be the residual pigmentation left behind even when the conditions are successfully treated.

Newer biologics to treat psoriasis are currently in late stages of development, and promising data from phase 2 and phase 3 clinical trials should give patients reason to hope. The biologics may be available as early as the end of 2008 or during 2009.

Some current therapies of psoriasis, though effective, are marred by their poor safety profile. A new experimental drug, similar in molecular structure to cyclosporine, has been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

Laser treatment has proven useful and effective in treating very focal areas in psoriasis patients. However, the PhotoMedex XTRAC laser has the highest UV-power delivery of any medical excimer laser on the market today. It is this ability that allows for faster treatment of large surface areas.