Hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis hormone changes during IL-17A inhibition with secukinumab in patients with psoriasis
Krefting F, Hölsken S, Sondermann W, Schedlowski M (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2026
Journal
Book Volume: 282
Article Number: 110611
DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2025.110611
Abstract
Purpose: Secukinumab, an interleukin-17 A (IL-17 A) inhibitor, is an approved treatment for psoriasis, but effects on the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis are unknown. Methods: In a 16-week randomized controlled trial, 105 patients with psoriasis received secukinumab at either 300 or 75 mg. Plasma levels of IL-17 A, cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone, prolactin, dehydroepiandrosterone and perceived stress using Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) were measured at baseline and every four weeks. Treatment response was assessed using Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). Results: Both dosage groups showed significant increases in IL-17 A and cortisol, with no differences between groups. Cortisol increased by approximately 33 %, indicating activation of HPA axis. Changes in cortisol did not correlate with PASI. PSS-10 inversely correlated with cortisol at baseline, and shifted positive during follow-up. Conclusion: Secukinumab treatment in psoriasis is accompanied by HPA axis activation. Further studies are needed to determine the duration, mechanisms, and magnitude of this activation.
Involved external institutions
Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Krefting, F., Hölsken, S., Sondermann, W., & Schedlowski, M. (2026). Hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis hormone changes during IL-17A inhibition with secukinumab in patients with psoriasis. Clinical Immunology, 282. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clim.2025.110611
MLA:
Krefting, F., et al. "Hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis hormone changes during IL-17A inhibition with secukinumab in patients with psoriasis." Clinical Immunology 282 (2026).
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