Efalizumab: A Biological Agent for the Treatment of Psoriasis

E-ISSN： 1876-1038|1|2|165-168

ISSN： 1574-8871

Source： Reviews on Recent Clinical Trials, Vol.1, Iss.2, 2006-05, pp. : 165-168

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Abstract

Efalizumab is a humanized, monoclonal IgG1 antibody that binds to the -subunit of lymphocyte function associated antigen (LFA)-1, blocking the interaction between LFA-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1. The result is a reduction in T cell activation, an inhibition of the trafficking and recruitment of T cells to the dermis and epidermis, and a decrease in the reactivation of T cells at several steps in the psoriasis pathogenesis. The clinical responses seen in efalizumab trials have demonstrated that this medication is efficacious, especially in long-term treatment. Adverse events observed in efalizumab-treated patients have been minor. Psoriasis rebound following discontinuation of treatment, while serious, has been controlled through transition to other therapies. Subcutaneous injection allows for administration outside the clinic.