Prevention and management of herpes zoster in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis: a clinical review

Abstract

The risk of herpes zoster (HZ) and HZrelated complications is increased in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) relative to the general population; therefore, HZ vaccination is recommended in these patient groups. In this literature-based review, we summarise the available evidence on the use of HZ vaccines in patients with RA and PsA, and discuss strategies for managing breakthrough infection. Currently available data show suboptimal rates of HZ vaccination among these patients and highlight a need for strategies to improve HZ vaccination programmes in clinical practice. Further clinical studies are also required to optimise the use of HZ vaccines in patients with RA and PsA, particularly with regard to determining the impact of different immunosuppressive therapy regimens on vaccine immunogenicity and, ultimately, efficacy, as well as the impact of vaccination on disease activity and safety.