Patient Point of View: PDE4 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Adult Plaque Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder that significantly impacts affected individuals’ quality of life. The most common subtype is plaque psoriasis, characterized by erythematous to violaceous plaques covered with scales. Due to the substantial symptom burden of plaque psoriasis and challenges surrounding medication tolerability and adherence, innovative treatment options are needed. Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors, which play a key role in the inflammatory cascade by degrading cAMP and contributing to pro-inflammatory mediator production, are emerging as a promising drug class for plaque psoriasis. As PDE4 inhibitors demonstrate efficacy in clinical trials and receive approval, it is crucial that members of the interdisciplinary care team develop patient education strategies that address safety concerns, foster communication, and promote adherence to therapy (Crowley & Gooderham, 2024). In this activity, Steven R. Feldman, MD, PhD, Professor of Dermatology, Pathology, and Social Sciences & Health Policy at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, and Sara Richardson, plaque psoriasis patient, provide insights into the patient point of view on PDE4 inhibitors for the treatment of adult plaque psoriasis.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Dermatologists, primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists, and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients with plaque psoriasis.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to

Discuss the scientific rationale behind targeting PDE4 in the treatment of plaque psoriasis
Evaluate the latest clinical evidence on the efficacy and safety of PDE4 inhibitors for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis
Develop patient education strategies that foster open communication, address safety concerns, and promote adherence to plaque psoriasis therapy