A Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Study on the Safety and Efficacy of Etanercept in Palmoplantar Pustulosis
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2007-03-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is a chronic recurrent skin condition characterized by the
presence of pustules, erythema and hyperkeratosis on palms and soles. PPP can be a severe and
disabling disease limiting the ability to walk or work. Although studies on the quality of
life of patients with PPP are not available, a recent investigation showed that palmoplantar
psoriasis (non pustular) has a more important impact on quality of life than plaque
psoriasis. This important impact on quality of life is not surprising as palmoplantar
psoriasis as well as palmoplantar pustulosis may limit the ability to work or conduct
activities with hands or even impair walking. The disease is sometimes associated with
psoriasis elsewhere on the body. Current treatments for PPP include topical corticosteroids,
cyclosporine, PUVA therapy, methotrexate and acitretin. Response to topical corticosteroids
and PUVA therapy is often disappointing presumably because the thickness of the stratum
corneum on palms and soles prevents good penetration of topical medications and light.
Cyclosporine and methotrexate are sometimes used with success for PPP but there are concerns
with long term toxicity of both drugs. Therefore there is a need for new treatments for PPP.