logo
Contact Us

Medical Dermatology

Biologics Treatment

doctor img
Dr. Liew Hui Min

Biologics are engineered proteins derived from living cells that regulate immune system activity and control inflammation. They are commonly prescribed for chronic dermatological conditions that do not respond well to conventional treatments. By targeting specific immune pathways, biologics help manage symptoms, reduce disease activity, and help maintain long-term symptom control.

Conditions Benefits Types Preparation Administration Treatment Risks FAQ
Jump to section…
Conditions
Benefits
Types
Preparation
Administration
Treatment
Risks
FAQ

Conditions Treated With Biologics

Biologics are used for skin conditions that need targeted treatment to regulate the immune system, including:

  • Psoriasis

    An autoimmune condition that speeds up skin cell production, leading to red, scaly patches that may be itchy or painful.

  • Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

    A persistent inflammatory skin disorder that results in severe itching, dryness, and rashes, often requiring systemic treatment when topical therapies are ineffective.

  • Chronic Urticaria

    A condition characterised by persistent hives and swelling that last for more than six weeks and does not respond adequately to antihistamines.

  • Hidradenitis Suppurativa

    A long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes painful nodules and abscesses, often in areas with skin folds, leading to scarring and recurrent flare-ups.

Benefits Of Biologics Treatment

Biologics offer several advantages for managing chronic skin conditions. Key benefits include:

Targeted Therapy

These treatments are designed to act on specific inflammatory pathways involved in skin conditions, reducing excessive immune responses without affecting the entire immune system.

Fewer Systemic Side Effects

Compared to broad-spectrum immunosuppressants, biologics are more selective in their action, lowering the risk of general immune suppression.

Long-Term Disease Control

Regular administration of biologics can help keep symptoms under control, reducing the frequency and severity of flare-ups over time.

Reduction in Inflammation and Skin Lesions

Many patients experience a reduction in itching, inflammation, and lesion formation, improving skin appearance and overall comfort.

Types Of Biologic Therapies

  • TNF-alpha Inhibitors: Block tumour necrosis factor-alpha, a protein involved in inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa, helping to reduce immune system overactivity.
  • IL-17 Inhibitors: Target interleukin-17, a cytokine linked to inflammation in moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, helping to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
  • IL-23 Inhibitors: Block interleukin-23, a molecule involved in the immune response of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions, reducing flare-ups and skin irritation.
  • IL-4 and IL-13 Inhibitors: Specifically used for atopic dermatitis, these block cytokines responsible for inflammation, itching, and skin barrier dysfunction.
  • Anti-IgE Therapy: Used for chronic urticaria, this therapy blocks immunoglobulin E (IgE) to reduce allergic reactions and prevent mast cell activation and histamine release.

Preparing For Biologics Treatment

  • Medical Assessment

    A detailed evaluation of medical history, existing skin conditions, and previous treatment responses is conducted to identify the most appropriate biologic therapy for long-term management.

  • Infection Screening

    Patients undergo testing for tuberculosis, hepatitis, and other infections to minimise risks, as biologics can alter immune function and increase susceptibility to infections.

  • Medication Review

    A thorough review of current medications is conducted to prevent interactions, adjust dosages if necessary, and ensure compatibility with biologic therapy.

  • Pre-Treatment Guidance

    Patients receive detailed instructions on how the treatment is administered, potential side effects, and monitoring requirements, particularly if self-injections or infusion-based therapies are involved.

Administration Of Biologics

  • Subcutaneous Injection: Some biologics are available as self-administered injections, typically taken at home. Patients receive training on proper injection techniques, dosage schedules, and storage requirements.
  • Dosing Schedule: The frequency of administration varies based on the prescribed biologic, with some requiring weekly injections while others are spaced further apart to maintain effectiveness.
  • Monitoring During Administration: Some injections will require monitoring for the first dose to observe for immediate reactions, such as allergic responses.

Post-Treatment Monitoring And Care

Routine Follow-Up Appointments

Regular check-ups help track symptom progression, adjust dosages if necessary, and assess whether continued biologic therapy remains beneficial.

Infection Prevention Measures

Patients receive guidance on minimising infection risks, as biologics can alter immune function and increase susceptibility to bacterial and viral illnesses.

Managing Side Effects

Common side effects, such as injection site reactions, mild flu-like symptoms, or gastrointestinal discomfort, should be monitored and reported for evaluation and management.

Long-Term Treatment Planning

The effectiveness of biologic therapy is periodically reviewed to assess whether adjustments or discontinuation are needed based on treatment response.

Potential Risks And Side Effects

Biologics treatment can lead to potential side effects, including mild to moderate injection site reactions, headaches, fatigue, and an increased risk of infections due to immune system alterations. Some patients may experience allergic reactions, changes in liver enzyme levels, or, in rare cases, a worsening of pre-existing autoimmune conditions. Regular monitoring and medical assessments help manage these risks and adjust treatment as needed.

image

Dr Liew Hui Min

Dr. Liew Hui Min is an accredited consultant dermatologist from the Ministry of Health and the General Medical Council UK.

Her clinical interest includes:

  • Paediatric Dermatology,
  • Women’s Dermatology,
  • General Adult Dermatology.

Having trained in major London Hospitals, Dr Liew returned to Singapore in 2014 as a Consultant at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) where she specialised in paediatric, women, obstetric and vulva dermatology. Currently, Dr Liew practices at HM Liew Skin & Laser Clinic located at Gleneagles Hospital.

Read Full Bio
Array

Need to book an appointment
or send us an enquiry?

Consultations by appointment only. For urgent or same day appointment requests, kindly call the clinic to arrange.

    Full Name*

    Email Address*

    Phone Number*

    Your Message*


    For Faster Response, Call Us Directly!

    +65‎ 6970‎ 8681

    Our Clinic

    image-slider
    image-slider
    image-slider
    image-slider

    Gleneagles Medical Centre

    6 Napier Road, #06-01
    Singapore 258499

    T:+65‎ 6970‎ 8681
    T:+65 6970 8682
    M:+65 8686 2445
    F: +65 6970 8683

    Mon to Fri (8am – 12pm; 1pm – 4pm)
    Sat (8am – 12pm, by appointment only)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What will my first consultation be like?

    We accept the following modes of payment:

    Modes of Payment

    We accept the following modes of payment:

    Billing & Insurance

    Partnered Programs & Insurance Plans

    For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners.
    Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long does it take to see results?

    The time frame for improvement varies depending on the condition being treated and the type of biologic used. Some patients notice changes within a few weeks, while others require at least 3-6 months before experiencing significant benefits.

    Can biologics be discontinued once symptoms improve?

    Stopping biologics abruptly may lead to symptom recurrence or flare-ups. Treatment plans should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine whether adjustments, discontinuation, or alternative therapies are appropriate.

    Do biologics completely suppress the immune system?

    Biologics selectively target specific immune pathways rather than broadly suppressing immunity, which helps reduce overactive immune responses without significantly increasing susceptibility to infections.

    Conditions Treated With Biologics

    Biologics are used for skin conditions that need targeted treatment to regulate the immune system, including:

    Psoriasis

    An autoimmune condition that speeds up skin cell production, leading to red, scaly patches that may be itchy or painful.

    Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

    A persistent inflammatory skin disorder that results in severe itching, dryness, and rashes, often requiring systemic treatment when topical therapies are ineffective.

    Chronic Urticaria

    A condition characterised by persistent hives and swelling that last for more than six weeks and does not respond adequately to antihistamines.

    Hidradenitis Suppurativa

    A long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes painful nodules and abscesses, often in areas with skin folds, leading to scarring and recurrent flare-ups.