Cost analysis in the management of moderate-to-severe psoriasis: comparison between conventional and biological systemic therapies

Background. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with an important socio-economic burden. Available therapies include conventional systemic drugs and biological drugs, such as Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α inhibitors, that are characterized by high costs. Aim. Perform cost-estimation analysis of treatment vs therapy biosimilar TNF-α inhibitor between January 2021 2022, according to the Apulia regional cost list. Methods. The average annual expenditure per patient on (cyclosporine methotrexate) was compared. 'cost responder' determined analyzing percentages 'responders' (patients achieving PASI 75 90) 'non-responders' (PASI <75) after one year treatment. Results. capita cyclosporin €3,515.35, methotrexate €1,048.87, while for drug €3,030.11. "cost responder" showed value €8,573 cyclosporine, €2,834 methotrexate, €3,564 inhibitor. Conclusions. Conventional have greater impact healthcare than inhibitors.