Art of prevention: Our approach to the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine in adult patients vaccinated against measles before 1968 on biologic therapy for the treatment of psoriasis.

BACKGROUND

In response to the evolving measles epidemic in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that some adults be revaccinated against measles because they may have inadequate immunity against the virus. Patients receiving biologic medications for psoriasis face a clinical dilemma because they may be at an increased risk of developing severe measles; however, vaccination with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is not recommended for those on biologic therapy according to the American Academy of Dermatology-National Psoriasis Foundation guidelines.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to review available research on the safety and efficacy of live-attenuated vaccines in individuals receiving biologic therapy for psoriasis and to discuss our approach to vaccinating individuals on biologic agents for psoriasis with the MMR vaccine.

METHODS

A review of the literature was performed via PubMed search. Our institution's anecdotal experiences are also discussed.

RESULTS

Data, although limited, are available suggesting that live-attenuated vaccines may be safe for individuals on tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors for psoriasis. Inadequate data are available for patients receiving other biologic medications.

CONCLUSION

Providers should engage in shared decision-making to determine whether patients on tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors for psoriasis should receive the MMR vaccine without an interruption in biologic therapy.