Etanercept therapy for psoriasis in a patient with numerous comorbidities.

A recent study demonstrated an association between psoriasis and dilated cardiomyopathy. Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) may be involved in the pathogenesis of dilated cardiomyopathy and therefore, anti-TNFalpha agents may play a role in the treatment of dilated cardiomyopathy. The case of a 51-year-old woman with severe psoriasis and numerous comorbidities including dilated cardiomyopathy is described. During treatment with etanercept, the patient's psoriasis improved rapidly without any worsening of her other conditions. Etanercept was safe and effective in the treatment of severe psoriasis in a patient with numerous comorbidities, including dilated cardiomyopathy.