Vedolizumab is an effective alternative in inflammatory bowel disease patients with anti-TNF-alpha therapy-induced dermatological side effects.

BACKGROUND

The treatment of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases has been revolutionized by the introduction of biological therapy with TNF-alpha blockers. However, TNF-alpha blockers are also associated with a wide variety of dermatological side effects, such as local skin infections, psoriasis and eczema. A new biological therapy, targeting the gut-specific adhesion molecule alpha4beta7 integrin, is the humanized monoclonal IgG1 antibody vedolizumab. Vedolizumab prevents leukocyte migration to the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing inflammation. This gut-specific therapy has the potential to reduce systemic side effects, including dermatological ones.

METHODS

We describe 3 inflammatory bowel disease patients who experience anti-TNF-alpha therapy-induced dermatological side effects, consisting of hidradenitis suppurativa, a folliculitis, scalp psoriasis and a dissecting folliculitis.

RESULTS

In all patients, anti-TNF-alpha therapy-induced dermatological side effects diminished after switching to vedolizumab.

CONCLUSION

Vedolizumab may be a viable alternative biological therapy in inflammatory bowel disease patients who experience anti-TNF-alpha therapy-induced dermatological side effects.