60 Dermatologists from across the Middle East attend Psoriasis lecture

The lecture, sponsored by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals and in coordination with The Dubai Dermatology Club, was given by Prof. Richard Langley, Associate Professor of Medicine & Director of Research at Dalhouise University, Halifax, Canada. Prof. Langley discussed the British Association of Dermatologists Guidelines, along with his personal guidelines on the use of Biological therapies on Psoriasis patients.

The objective of the lecture was to increase awareness of the practical aspects of 'biologics', by clarifying who should be treated and how to initiate biological therapy. Prof. Langley also gave an overview on the results of a study conducted on 300 patients. One of the results discussed, showed the link between psoriasis and obesity.

'Psoriasis has a profound negative impact on the quality of life and in many cases it may lead the sufferer into a state of depression' says Prof. Langley, 'there is a need for new therapies with fewer side effects, especially for patients with severe psoriasis that are undergoing extensive therapies'

Biological therapies or 'biologics' have emerged over the last 3-5 years as a potentially therapeutic option to psoriasis, but since clinical history and long-term results are limited certain guidelines have been developed to guarantee a systematic, safe and effective treatment process for psoriasis patients.

'The results I have seen from biologics have been terrific on most of my patients, especially when treating moderate to severe psoriasis' adds Prof. Langley, 'but guidelines prescribing biologics is a must, to maximize treatment effectiveness and ensure that the correct biologic treatment is presented for the patient.'