What are the causes of infections during psoriasis treatment?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am reaching out with concerns about my 48-year-old sister, who has psoriasis. She has been feeling unwell with a persistent cough and fever for the past few weeks. She is currently on biological medications for her psoriasis, and while they have been effective for her skin condition, they might be weakening her immune system.

Could her use of biological medications make her more susceptible to infections like pneumococcal disease?
Given her treatment, are there any specific warnings or precautions we should be aware of regarding these types of infections?
She is understandably hesitant to stop the medication since it is the only treatment that works for her psoriasis, but she is also concerned about her health. Would you recommend any vaccines to help protect her in this situation?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Biological medications (biologics) are made from living organisms or their products. They target specific parts of the immune system to treat conditions like autoimmune diseases, cancers, and chronic inflammation. Biologics are used for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease. Biologics can lower immunity, increasing the risk of infections. However, I would not recommend stopping the treatment.

Possible causes:

Immunosuppression.
Overcrowding.
Contact with a coughing person.

For her current symptoms, she should undergo:

Chest X-ray.
Full blood count.
Sputum m/c/s test.

Probable diagnosis: Lobar pneumonia.

Treatment: Antibiotics like Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid.

Prevention:

Avoid overcrowding.
Avoid contact with sick individuals.
Ensure good ventilation when cooking indoors.
Get vaccinated with influenza and pneumococcal vaccines.

Differential diagnosis:

COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Interstitial fibrosis.

Additionally, contact a respiratory physician for an expert review.

I hope this helps answer your query.

Please feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.