Treatment of psoriasis with alefacept in patients with hepatitis C infection: a report of two cases

Br J Dermatol. 2005 May;152(5):1048-50. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2005.06423.x.

Abstract

Alefacept is a fully human fusion protein for use in adult patients with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis. Its dual mechanism of action involves inhibition of T-cell activation and selective reduction of memory T cells. We report the clinical course of two patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection who have received alefacept for psoriasis. Consistent with its mechanism of action, administration of alefacept led to transient decreases in CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell counts. However, these reductions were not associated with an increase in HCV viral load or exacerbation of infection. Liver enzymes remained stable throughout the treatment and follow-up periods. Alefacept has a selective mechanism of action that specifically targets memory T cells and this selectivity may account for its safety and tolerability in patients with hepatitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alefacept
  • CD4 Lymphocyte Count
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Hepatitis C / complications*
  • Hepatitis C / immunology
  • Hepatitis C / virology
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Lymphocyte Count
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Psoriasis / complications
  • Psoriasis / drug therapy*
  • Psoriasis / immunology
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / therapeutic use*
  • Viral Load

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins
  • Alefacept