AbbVie to test Humira for treatment of fingernal psoriasis

North Chicago-based AbbVie has started testing to evaluate the use of Humira as a treatment for fingernail psoriasis in patients with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis, an area of unmet need.

Currently there are no approved treatments for fingernail psoriasis.

"Since treatment options are limited, we welcome research that evaluates new options for patients suffering from this disease and are excited to start evaluating adalimumab in this patient population," said Dr. Phoebe Rich, M.D., clinical adjunct professor of dermatology at Oregon Health Sciences University.

Psoriasis is a noncontagious, chronic immune disease that speeds the growth cycle of skin cells and results in thick, scaly areas of skin. Psoriasis can also affect the fingernails causing pitting, discoloration, loosening and irregular contour of the fingernail. Although the prevalence of fingernail psoriasis in those with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis is unknown, about 50 percent of the 125 million people worldwide with psoriasis have nail involvement.

Humira is currently originally developed for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in adults, but has erecently been expanded to treat moderate to severe ulcerative colitis and moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis.