Handbook of Biologics & Biosimilars in Dermatology, New edition

A drug is typically manufactured through chemical synthesis, which means that it is made by combining specific chemical ingredients in an ordered process. Biologics are medicines made from living cells through highly complex manufacturing processes and must be handled and administered under carefully monitored conditions. Biologics are used to prevent, treat, diagnose, or cure a variety of diseases including cancer, chronic kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. A biosimilar is a biologic that is similar to another biologic drug already that has already been approved.

This book is a complete guide to the use of biologics and biosimilars in the treatment of dermatologic disorders.

Beginning with an overview of the history and classification of biologics and the concept of biosimilars, the following chapters explain their therapeutic use for different skin conditions.

The final sections cover related topics such as cost effectiveness and quality of life with biologic therapy, and the book concludes with discussion on future developments and the use of small molecule treatment.

Key points

• Complete guide to use of biologics and biosimilars in treatment of dermatologic disorders
• Covers many different skin diseases and conditions
• Discusses related topics such as cost effectiveness and quality of life
• Covers future development of small molecule therapy

1. History and Development of biologics
2. Classification of Biologics
3. Concept and development of biosimilars
4. Biologics in management of psoriasis – Pathogenesis and mechanism of action
5. TNF alpha Blockers
   1. Etanercept Infliximab
   2. Adalimumab
6. IL-17 blockers – Secukinumab
7. Anti CD6 monoclonal antibody
8. Newer biologics
9. Anti CD20 monoclonal antibody
10. Anti IgE monoclonal antibody
11. Intravenous immunoglobulins
12. Miscellaneous uses of biologics
13. Biologic approach to management of various diseases – when to use and which one?
    1. Psoriasis
    2. Immunobullous diseases
    3. Hidradenitis suppurativa
    4. Connective tissue diseases
14. Adverse effects of biologics – feared or real?
15. Management of latent tuberculosis infection
16. Adult immunization prior to initiation of biologic therapy
17. Cost effectiveness and quality of life with biologic therapy
18. Biologics in children: Which, when, why?
19. Biologics in presence of hepatitis B and C infection
20. Biologics in special situation
21. Small molecules
    1. Tofacitinib
    2. Apremilast
    3. Sirolimus

Manas Chatterjee MD DNB 
Senior Adviser, Professor and Head, Department of Dermatology, INHS Asvini, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Shekhar Neema MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, Command Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India