From the FDA Drug Label
Elevated levels of IL-17A are found in psoriatic plaques and in HS lesions. Increased numbers of IL-17A producing lymphocytes and innate immune cells and increased levels of IL-17A have been found in the blood of patients with PsA and AS Increased numbers of IL-17A producing lymphocytes have also been found in patients with nr-axSpA.
The significance of Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) at an elevated level of 11 is not directly stated in the drug label. However, elevated levels of IL-17A are associated with various conditions such as psoriatic plaques, HS lesions, PsA, AS, and nr-axSpA.
- The drug label does not provide a specific interpretation of an IL-17A level of 11.
- It is unknown how this level relates to the clinical effects of secukinumab 1.
From the Research
Elevated IL-17A levels, such as 11, are associated with inflammatory conditions and serve as both a biomarker and therapeutic target for autoimmune diseases like psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Normal IL-17A levels in healthy individuals are typically very low or undetectable in serum, generally below 5 pg/mL 2. The significance of an elevated IL-17A level of 11 suggests an active inflammatory process, which may be indicative of an underlying autoimmune condition.
Clinical Implications
Several biologic medications specifically target the IL-17 pathway, including secukinumab (Cosentyx), ixekizumab (Taltz), and brodalumab (Siliq), which are administered via subcutaneous injection at varying intervals based on the specific medication and condition being treated 3. These medications work by blocking IL-17A or its receptor, thereby reducing inflammation and improving symptoms in autoimmune conditions.
Diagnostic Considerations
IL-17A testing is primarily used in research settings rather than routine clinical practice, with measurement typically performed using ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) techniques 4. The interpretation of IL-17A levels should always be done in the context of clinical presentation and other laboratory findings.
Treatment Options
Recent studies have demonstrated the efficacy of IL-17A inhibitors, such as secukinumab, in treating psoriatic arthritis and concomitant moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis 5. The choice of treatment should be individualized based on the specific condition, disease severity, and patient characteristics.
Key Takeaways
- Elevated IL-17A levels are associated with inflammatory conditions and serve as a therapeutic target for autoimmune diseases.
- IL-17A inhibitors, such as secukinumab, are effective in treating psoriatic arthritis and concomitant moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.
- IL-17A testing is primarily used in research settings, and interpretation should be done in the context of clinical presentation and other laboratory findings.