Biological therapies refer to treatments that use natural or engineered substances to target specific biological pathways involved in skin conditions. In dermatology, biological therapies are commonly used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including:
Psoriasis: Biologic medications, such as adalimumab, infliximab, and ustekinumab, target specific cytokines or immune cells involved in the inflammation and skin cell growth seen in psoriasis.
Atopic dermatitis: Biologic medications, such as dupilumab, target cytokines involved in the inflammation associated with atopic dermatitis.
Vitiligo: Topical calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, target specific immune pathways involved in the skin depigmentation seen in vitiligo.
Alopecia areata: Biologic medications, such as ruxolitinib, target specific immune pathways involved in the hair loss seen in alopecia areata.
Hidradenitis suppurativa: Biologic medications, such as adalimumab and certolizumab, target specific cytokines or immune pathways involved in the inflammation and abscess formation seen in hidradenitis suppurativa.
It is important to note that biological therapies for dermatologic conditions may come with side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. Your dermatologist or healthcare provider can help determine the best treatment options for your individual needs.