PSORIASIS in pregnancy and lactation presents critical challenges for clinical management, according to a new review aimed at dermatologists and healthcare professionals. With nearly 75 percent of female psoriasis patients under the age of 40, pregnancy and breastfeeding are common considerations in their treatment journey. However, clinical data on the safety and efficacy of psoriasis therapies during these stages remains notably scarce.
The review evaluates both topical and systemic treatments, including biologics and small molecule therapies. It stresses that pregnancy continues to be an exclusion criterion in most clinical trials, creating a significant knowledge gap in evidence-based care for this population.
Researchers Michela D’Agostino and colleagues outline the importance of individualized treatment planning. The review recommends a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, with careful risk-benefit assessments for each case. This includes evaluating the impact of therapies not only on maternal disease control but also on fetal and neonatal outcomes.
The authors emphasize the need to consult national safety registers when available, to support informed decision-making. These registries may offer critical insights into pregnancy outcomes following drug exposure, although data remains limited.
Ultimately, the study serves as a call to action for clinicians treating women of childbearing age with psoriasis. Given the complexities involved, the review underscores the value of collaboration among dermatologists, obstetricians, pediatricians, and pharmacists to optimize care pathways during pregnancy and lactation.
As psoriasis continues to affect a significant portion of reproductive-aged women, this research highlights the pressing need for robust data and clinical guidance in managing the disease during some of life’s most vulnerable stages.
Reference:
D’Agostino M et al. Psoriasis, pregnancy and lactation: clinical implications and treatments. Expert Rev Clin Immunol. 2025. [Online ahead of print].
