Etanercept in the Treatment of Palmoplantar Pustulosis

October 2008 | Volume 7 | Issue 10 | Original Article | 940 | Copyright © October 2008


R. Bissonnette MD FRCPC, Y. Poulin MD FRCPC, C. Bolduc MD FRCPC, C. Maari MD FRCPC, N. Provost MD FRCPC, J. Syrotuik MA, M. Poulin-Costello MSc PStat, S. Nigen MD FRCPC

Abstract
Introduction: Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is a chronic, recurrent and difficult to treat skin condition characterized by the presence of pustules, erythema, and hyperkeratosis on palms and soles.
Methods: Fifteen subjects with PPP were randomized (2:1) to receive subcutaneous injections of either etanercept 50 mg or a place- bo twice a week for 3 months. All subjects then received the etanercept 50 mg injections twice a week for an additional 3 months.
Results: Etanercept was well tolerated by subjects with PPP. The decrease in median Palmoplantar Pustulosis Area and Sever- ity Index (PPPASI) score from baseline to 24 weeks was statistically significant for subjects treated with etanercept for 24 weeks (P = 0.038, n = 10) but not for subjects in the placebo/etanercept cross-over group (P = 0.125, n = 5). Comparison of changes in PPPASI from baseline to week 12 was not statistically significant for subjects assigned to etanercept or to placebo. Some subjects treated with etanercept presented good clinical improvements in PPP severity whereas others showed an increase in PPP severity
Conclusion: This study showed that etanercept was well tolerated in subjects with PPP and suggests that some PPP subjects might benefit from etanercept therapy. Larger studies are needed to assess PPP response to etanercept including the influence of smoking and the presence or absence of psoriasis outside palms and soles.