Real-World Treatment Response to Adalimumab and Secukinumab in Chinese Adults with Hidradenitis Suppurativa

BACKGROUNDBiologic therapies have transformed the management of moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). However, real-world comparative data between tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors and interleukin-17 (IL-17) inhibitors in Chinese populations remain limited.

OBJECTIVETo compare the short- and mid-term effectiveness and safety of TNF-α versus IL-17 inhibitors in adult Chinese patients with HS.

METHODSThis single-center retrospective cohort study included adult patients (≥18 years) with moderate-to-severe HS treated with biologics. Patients were stratified into TNF-α inhibitor and IL-17 inhibitor groups. The primary endpoint was achievement of Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response (HiSCR50) at week 16. Secondary endpoints included HiSCR50 at weeks 12, and safety outcomes.

RESULTSA total of 79 adult patients were included (TNF-α: n=25; IL-17: n=54). At week 12, response rates remained similar (72.0% vs. 63.0%). By week 16, a decline in response was observed in the TNF-α group (56.0%), whereas the IL-17 group maintained a stable response (66.7%). Safety profiles were acceptable in both groups, with one discontinuation due to fungal infection in the IL-17 group.

CONCLUSIONBoth TNF-α and IL-17 inhibitors demonstrate rapid onset of action in HS. However, IL-17 inhibitors may offer superior mid-term durability of response, supporting their role as a preferred option for sustained disease control.

Abstract from PubMed