Maui Derm 2026: Psoriasis Therapies Effective on High-Impact Sites | Healio

For individuals living with psoriasis, particularly those experiencing symptoms in sensitive areas, recent findings offer encouraging news. Studies presented at Maui Derm 2026 indicate that several commonly used psoriasis therapies—including guselkumab (Tremfya, Janssen) and risankizumab (Skyrizi, AbbVie)—demonstrate both effectiveness and safety when applied to “high-impact” psoriasis sites. These areas, such as the scalp, face, skin folds (intertriginous areas), and nails, often present unique challenges in treatment due to their sensitivity and visibility.

James Song, MD, FAAD, Co-CMO and director of clinical research at Frontier Dermatology in Mill Creek, Washington, highlighted the positive results. He noted that the safety profiles observed in these high-impact areas were consistent with those established in larger phase 3 clinical trials, providing further reassurance for both clinicians and patients. The National Psoriasis Foundation recently adopted a new definition of disease severity, which may influence how these treatments are assessed in the future.

Understanding ‘High-Impact’ Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaly, itchy patches. While psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body, certain locations significantly impact quality of life. The scalp, face, and areas where skin rubs together (like the armpits, groin, and under the breasts) are particularly troublesome. Nail psoriasis, characterized by pitting, thickening, and discoloration of the nails, can as well be debilitating. These “high-impact” sites are often more difficult to treat, and traditional therapies may not always provide adequate relief without causing unwanted side effects.

Dr. Song emphasized the importance of having data specifically addressing these areas, even in patients with relatively limited overall body surface area involvement. “It’s always nice to have additional data to use these therapies on those who have lower body surface areas but also high-impact sites,” he explained. This suggests that even individuals with mild psoriasis may benefit from more targeted treatments if they are experiencing significant symptoms in these sensitive locations.

Risankizumab vs. Deucravacitinib: Convenience and Patient Preference

The Maui Derm presentations also included a head-to-head comparison of risankizumab and deucravacitinib (Sotyktu, Bristol Myers Squibb) in patients with moderate psoriasis. The study found that risankizumab demonstrated superior efficacy. Interestingly, patient convenience also emerged as a key factor. While oral therapies are often preferred, Dr. Song noted that many patients found the once-a-quarter injection schedule of risankizumab to be acceptable.

“We found that these patients on risankizumab found the medication to be very convenient despite it being an injection,” Dr. Song told Healio. “I think that’s important because although oral therapies may be preferred by some patients, once-a-quarter injections may not be a big deal for a lot of our patients.” This highlights the importance of considering individual patient preferences and lifestyle factors when selecting a treatment plan. Contacting customer service may be necessary if you encounter issues with treatment access.

What Do These Therapies Do? A Closer Look

Guselkumab, risankizumab, and deucravacitinib all function by targeting different parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation and slow down the overproduction of skin cells that characterize psoriasis. Guselkumab and risankizumab are interleukin-23 (IL-23) inhibitors, while deucravacitinib is a tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor. IL-23 and TYK2 are both involved in the inflammatory pathways that drive psoriasis. By blocking these pathways, these therapies can facilitate to clear skin lesions and reduce symptoms.

It’s important to note that these are not cures for psoriasis, but rather treatments that can help manage the condition. Psoriasis is a chronic disease, and individuals may experience flares and remissions over time. Ongoing monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans may be necessary to maintain optimal control of symptoms.

Safety and Tolerability: Consistent Findings

The studies presented at Maui Derm 2026 confirmed that the safety and tolerability profiles of guselkumab and risankizumab remained consistent with those observed in previous phase 3 trials. Common side effects associated with these therapies include injection site reactions, upper respiratory infections, and headache. Serious side effects are rare, but can occur. Cape May County, NJ is currently under a Code Blue alert, unrelated to psoriasis treatment, but a reminder to stay informed about local health advisories.

Deucravacitinib, being an oral medication, carries its own set of potential side effects, including upper respiratory infections, nasopharyngitis, and increased risk of certain infections. Patients should discuss the potential risks and benefits of each treatment option with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate course of action.

Looking Ahead: Continued Research and Personalized Treatment

The findings from Maui Derm 2026 contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting the effectiveness and safety of various psoriasis therapies in high-impact areas. Ongoing research is focused on identifying biomarkers that can predict treatment response and developing more targeted therapies with fewer side effects. A fatal pedestrian accident in Portland, Oregon is unrelated, but serves as a reminder of the importance of situational awareness.

the goal is to personalize treatment plans based on individual patient characteristics, disease severity, and treatment preferences. As Dr. Song’s research suggests, even seemingly minor conveniences, like injection frequency, can play a significant role in patient adherence and overall treatment success. Further investigation into these factors will be crucial for optimizing psoriasis management and improving the quality of life for those affected by this chronic condition. Recent insider stock purchases are unrelated to dermatology, but demonstrate market activity on March 12, 2026.