Guselkumab-associated bullous pemphigoid in a psoriasis patient: A case report and review of the literature

Drug-induced bullous pemphigoid (DBP) associated to biologics administered for psoriasis is rare. DBP has been described especially in association with anti-TNF-alpha drugs and anti-IL12 and 23, but never in relation to guselkumab (anti-IL23). We report the case of a 76-year-old male patient with severe psoriasis (PASI 20), presenting with generalized tense bullae and erosions after being recently switched to guselkumab therapy. Histology and direct immunofluorescence confirmed the suspect of bullous pemphigoid (BP). Guselkumab administration was interrupted, low-dose oral corticosteroid therapy was introduced and after only 1-month remission was obtained with no new lesions appearing. As outlined in the presented case, DBP's onset typically follows the introduction of a new drug in patients taking polypharmacy. In addition, DBP may spontaneously regress after discontinuation of the triggering drug and it responds very rapidly to steroid therapy. Up to date, DBP has been described after biological therapy for psoriasis in 11 patients, following administration of ustekinumab, efalizumab, etanercept, secukinumab, and adalimumab. Conversely, DBP after guselkumab therapy for psoriasis has never been reported in published studies. We highlight the need to face and document increasing, though rare, side effects of biologic therapies, as new biologic molecules are being constantly developed and administered to psoriatic patients, to promptly interrupt treatment when needed.

Automated summary

Drug-induced bullous pemphigoid (DBP) associated with biologics for psoriasis is rare and may spontaneously regress after discontinuation of the triggering drug, responding rapidly to steroid therapy. Despite being a rare side effect, it is important to document and address the increasing side effects of biologic therapies as new molecules are constantly being developed and administered to psoriatic patients.