@article{3114513,
    title = "Recommendations for the use of etanercept in psoriasis: a European
dermatology expert group consensus",
    author = "Boehncke, W-H and Brasie, R. A. and Barker, J. and Chimenti, S. and and Dauden, E. and de Rie, M. and Dubertret, L. and Giannetti, A. and and Katsambas, A. and Kragballe, K. and Naeyaert, J. M. and Ortonne, J-P and and Peyri, J. and Prinz, J. C. and Saurat, J. H. and Strohal, R. and van de and Kerkhof, P. and Sterry, W.",
    journal = "Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology",
    year = "2006",
    volume = "20",
    number = "8",
    pages = "988-998",
    publisher = "Wiley",
    issn = "0926-9959, 1468-3083",
    doi = "10.1111/j.1468-3083.2006.01707.x",
    keywords = "biological therapy; consensus; etanercept; psoriasis",
    abstract = "Background Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disorder that has a
significant impact on quality of life and, particularly in moderate to
severe cases, adversely affects the patient’s overall health and
well-being. Biological treatments, such as etanercept, are being widely
adopted across Europe for treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis due
to favourable safety and efficacy profiles. The increase in usage,
combined with a growing body of clinical evidence, has identified a need
to clarify the best use of etanercept within its current treatment
label.
Objective To prepare a series of recommendations agreed by an expert
group of dermatologists, relating to the most effective use of
etanercept for psoriasis in Europe, within the product license.
Methods An expert panel of dermatologists from across Europe completed a
Delphi survey to address the current use of etanercept in psoriasis in
Europe. In June 2005 the results were presented to the expert panel at
their nominal group meeting, and a consensus was agreed.
Results It was recommended that, where possible, patients are initiated
on the 50 mg twice-weekly (BIW) dose. Etanercept should be given until
remission is achieved (maximum 24 weeks) and retreatment should be
initiated according to the physician’s judgement. Before commencing
treatment, contraindications, such as infection or previous malignancy
(within 5 years), should be ruled out.
Conclusions The consensus presented herein provides valuable
clarification of use of etanercept according to the label, which may
have wider implications relating to the use of all biological therapies
in psoriasis."
}