Researchers conducted a literature review to assess the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines in patients undergoing biologic therapy for psoriasis. Biologic drugs are more effective and have fewer side effects than traditional treatments. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns, as these biologic drugs work by triggering the release of cytokines, which are proteins that help the immune system fight infection. Some cytokines are also involved in the development of psoriasis, leading to speculation that COVID-19 vaccines could trigger psoriasis flares or worsen psoriasis symptoms.
Reference: Potestio L, Martora F, Fabbrocini G, et al. Safety and Efficacy of Covid-19 Vaccination in Patients Undergoing Biological Treatments for Psoriasis. Psoriasis (Auckl). 2023 Apr 12;13:11-18. doi: 10.2147/PTT.S398135. PMID: 37077713; PMCID: PMC10106810.