Top dermatologists from the UAE and Saudi Arabia convened in Dubai recently to discuss advancements in the treatment of generalised pustular psoriasis (GPP), and introduce the first targeted therapy developed for the disease.

The General Pustular Psoriasis Summit 2024 led by Boehringer Ingelheim, one of the world’s leading research-driven biopharmaceutical companies, took place from May 17-18, 2024 in Dubai.

While underlining the urgency of controlling the danger that an auto inflammatory disease like GPP presents, medical experts emphasised the importance of treating flare up of the disease that can be life-threatening, using the latest evidence-based treatments.

Additionally, the meeting aimed to familiarise experts with Spesolimab, the first targeted therapy developed specifically for GPP, which has been approved by the regulatory agencies of Saudi and the UAE.

Generalized Pustular Psoriasis (GPP) is a rare and severe subtype of psoriasis, characterized by the onset of painful, pus-filled blisters on the skin.

GPP patients experience sudden and unpredictable flares lasting several weeks, requiring hospitalisation, significantly impacting multiple aspects of their lives including work, social connections, and their overall health.

In addition to the chronic nature of GPP, patients often face stigma fuelled by misconceptions about its contagiousness, leading to heightened levels of anxiety and depression among patients, as evidenced by research findings.

The forum’s two-day agenda facilitated knowledge-sharing around the complexities of GPP focusing on diagnosis and clinical practice.

The forum also drew the participation of renowned global medical experts to present the patient case studies, emerging treatment guidelines and clinical data on Spesolimab, a novel selective antibody that blocks the activation of the interleukin-36 receptor (IL-36R), a signalling pathway within the immune system shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of GPP.

Dr Ayman Al Anaeem, Dermatologist Consultant, said: “By fostering collaboration with medical experts, we gain insights vital to understanding patients' real challenges. Through the GPP Summit, we aim to build a forum that facilitates discussions on treatment guidelines, fostering best practices exchange with the experts in the field.

“We believe that together, we can improve patient outcomes and transform lives affected by GPP."

Ibrahim B, Hamad Obaidallah Hospital, Emirates Health Services, Ras Al Khaimah, said: “Collaborating with the broader medical community on platforms like this summit offers invaluable insights into the multifaceted aspects of GPP treatment and management.

“Amid the rarity of GPP, patient awareness remains alarmingly low, resulting in detrimental delays in seeking vital medical intervention. Addressing this awareness gap is paramount. Through enhancing our understanding of available therapies, together, we can profoundly impact the lives of individuals navigating the challenges of GPP."

Mohammed Alajlan, Consultant of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, said: “GPP flares not only inflict physical discomfort but also levy emotional turmoil and societal prejudice on those battling this condition.

“This meeting serves as a beacon, shedding light on real-world evidence crucial for enhancing clinical outcomes and delivering relief to patients. Through collective insights shared here, we deepen our understanding, translating into timely solutions addressing the most pressing medical needs of GPP patients." – TradeArabia News Service