Management of Drug-Induced Psoriasis With Secukinumab in a Patient With Schizoaffective Disorder: A Case Report

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory systemic disorder often associated with psychiatric comorbidities such as depression and anxiety. This case report describes a 25-year-old man with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, whose suicidal ideation was worsened by a severe psoriasis flare that was induced by the initiation of lithium for psychiatric management. Lithium was switched to valproate, and treatment with secukinumab, an IL-17A inhibitor, was initiated, resulting in significant improvement in both psoriasis and mental health. This case highlights the phenomenon of drug-induced psoriasis, emphasizing the need for a high index of suspicion and careful review of past medical history. It underscores the reciprocal relationship between psoriasis and psychiatric comorbidities, advocating for a tailored approach to treating both conditions to achieve optimal outcomes.