Interleukin-17 Inhibition in a Patient With Psoriasis and Concurrent Vitiligo

Background: Psoriasis and vitiligo are 2 autoimmune conditions that can occur concurrently in patients. At present, no single systemic therapy has been identified to be effective in treating both the conditions. Observations: Recent advances in our understanding of the T helper (Th) 17 subset of Th cells suggests that interleukin (IL)-17 may play a key role in the pathogenesis of both vitiligo and psoriasis. We report a case of anatomically superimposed psoriatic plaques and vitiligo for which treatment with ixekizumab leads to resolution of psoriasis but did not improve the patient’s vitiligo. Conclusion: While IL-17 is highly effective in the treatment of psoriasis, it does not seem to be an effective treatment for vitiligo.