Systemic treatment options for psoriasis and lichen planus

This course consists of three comprehensive units, each dedicated to specific treatment strategies for psoriasis and lichen planus:

Unit 1: Systemic Treatment of Psoriasis
This unit focuses on the oral treatment options for psoriasis, including methotrexate, cyclosporine, and acitretin. The pathophysiology of psoriasis is discussed to provide context for the use of these therapies. Participants will learn about the benefits and risks of each treatment, such as methotrexate’s effectiveness and the need for regular monitoring, cyclosporine’s rapid efficacy in severe cases, and acitretin’s role in managing pustular psoriasis​.

Unit 2: Biologics for Psoriasis
The second unit delves into biologic therapies, including TNF inhibitors like adalimumab, etanercept, and infliximab, as well as newer biologics targeting IL-17 and IL-23 pathways. This section explores how biologics have transformed psoriasis treatment by offering long-term disease control with less frequent dosing. Monitoring protocols and patient-specific considerations, such as infection risks, are also highlighted​.

Unit 3: Systemic Treatment of Lichen Planus
The final unit addresses the treatment of lichen planus, focusing on both topical and systemic therapies. Treatments such as prednisone, metronidazole, acitretin, and mycophenolate are discussed, along with strategies for managing severe cases. The unit emphasizes patient-tailored approaches based on factors like pregnancy risk, liver function, and immunosuppression.

Presented by Dr. Richard Usatine, this course provides a well-rounded education on the systemic management of psoriasis and lichen planus, ensuring healthcare professionals can make informed treatment decisions to improve patient outcomes.