title: Off-label uses of biologics in dermatology: interferon and intravenous immunoglobulin (part 1 of 2).
abstract: The introduction of a number of biologic therapies into the market has revolutionized the practice of dermatology. These therapies include interferons, intravenous immunoglobulin, infliximab, adalimumab, etanercept, efalizumab, alefacept, and rituximab. Most dermatologists are familiar with the Food and Drug Administration-approved indications of these medications. However, numerous off-label uses have evolved. As part 1 of a 2-part series, this article will review the literature regarding the off-label uses of the interferons and intravenous immunoglobulin in dermatology.
authors.affiliation: Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
authors.forename: David I
authors.initials: DI
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: Pooja M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Swamy
authors.forename: Michael P
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Heffernan
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D017277:Drug Approval; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007116:Immunization, Passive; D016756:Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007155:Immunologic Factors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007223:Infant; D007372:Interferons / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D012874:Skin Diseases, Infectious / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy; D014481:United States; D014486:United States Food and Drug Administration
chemical_list: D016756:Immunoglobulins, Intravenous; D007155:Immunologic Factors; D007372:Interferons