Suicide and depression in a patient with psoriasis receiving adalimumab: the role of the dermatologist

Résumé

A 53-year-old man took his own life while receiving biological therapy with the tumour necrosis factor-alpha inhibitor adalimumab for severe psoriasis. The patient had a psychiatric history and a 32-year history of variable unstable psoriasis. Reported suicide in patients with psoriasis receiving adalimumab is rare (only one other reported case). It is important, however, to recognize the effects of skin disease on the mental health of vulnerable patients receiving biological agents. Patients will benefit from a more holistic approach that includes both dermatological and psychological assessment and treatment. SUICIDE-COMPLÉTÉ MALADIE-CHRONIQUE MALADIE-PHYSIQUE APPARENCE-PHYSIQUE PHARMACOTHÉRAPIE MÉDICAMENT COMORBIDITÉ DÉPRESSION